First Indian Businessman To Buy A 100 Crore Airbus Helicopter Just Bought A 650 Crore Gulfstream Business Jet
In India, we have several billionaire businessmen who have started from a humble background. Ravi Pillai is one such personality. He is the founder of the RP Group, which operates various businesses across different parts of the world. Just like any rich businessman, Ravi Pillai also owns several premium and luxury cars in India and abroad. He surfaced on various news platforms after he made a new purchase—a private business jet worth Rs 650 crore.
The video seen here has been shared by Manorama News on their YouTube channel. The businessman bought his brand-new private jet, a Gulfstream G600. The aircraft arrived at Kochi airport and was welcomed with a water salute. This is a symbolic gesture of respect that is often used to celebrate occasions like a first flight.
After the flight landed, it was brought into the hangar, where the businessman and his family greeted the pilots. Just like in the case of a car or a bike, the new aircraft was welcomed to the garage in Indian style. We see a priest performing rituals before its official first flight after delivery.
The video showcases the interior and exterior of the jet. Mr. Ravi Pillai can be seen in the video, and he even has a conversation with the media personnel. He mentions that the main reason why he opted for this is to save time. Usually, whenever you have to take a flight, a person has to reach the airport at least two hours before the flight time.
For a common man like us, a couple of hours in travel might not matter much, but for a person who is running a business, every minute counts. Ravi Pillai has got the cabin customized to his liking. The Gulfstream G600 is a twin-engine business jet produced by Savannah, Georgia-based Gulfstream Aerospace Corp.
The jet can cruise at a maximum altitude of 51,000 ft and has a maximum range of about 12,223 km. The cost of a Gulfstream G600 depends on the customizations and options that the customer opts for. The report mentions that the aircraft bought by Ravi Pillai includes several customizations, including a kitchen. This might have increased the price.
Apart from the newly bought G600 aircraft, Ravi Pillai has a variety of vehicles in his collection.
Airbus H145
Ravi Pillai also owns an Airbus H145 helicopter and he was the first one to buy this in India. He took delivery of his brand-new helicopter in Kovalam, Kerala, a few years ago. After taking delivery, the helicopter’s maiden flight was from Kovalam to Raviz Ashtamudi, with Ravi Pillai onboard. The Raviz resorts are owned by Mr. Pillai and have several properties in different parts of the state.
What makes this helicopter special is that Airbus will only make 1,500 units of this model worldwide. The Airbus H145 is a four-blade compact helicopter that can accommodate two pilots and seven passengers. It is powered by two Safran HE Arriel 2C2 turboshaft engines, delivering 785 kW of power. The helicopter can travel at a speed of about 246 km/h and can operate at heights of up to 20,000 feet above sea level.
Rolls-Royce Ghost
Mr. Pillai bought the Rolls-Royce Ghost in 2011. It is one of his favourite cars in his collection. The Ghost Series I is located in Kerala at Ravi Pillai’s residence in Kollam. He uses the Rolls-Royce for work-related travel.
Mercedes-Maybach S600
He also owns a Maybach S600 sedan in his garage. Ravi Pillai was, in fact, the first person in South India to buy this expensive car. The Maybach S600 offers premium features like a state-of-the-art infotainment system, ambient lighting, seat massagers, an integrated perfume system, a panoramic sunroof, and a comprehensive list of other amenities. It is powered by a 6.0-liter V12 petrol engine that churns out a maximum power of 530 BHP and a peak torque of 800 Nm.
Land Rover Range Rover Autobiography
The Land Rover Range Rover Autobiography stands as one of the most luxurious SUVs globally. The all-black SUV was prominently displayed at Ravi Pillai’s daughter’s wedding, showcasing its grandeur. This was also the previous-generation Range Rover that was popular among celebrities.
Mercedes-Maybach S500
Ravi Pillai gifted a brand-new Maybach S500 at his daughter’s wedding. This is a previous-generation sedan, but it doesn’t lack in terms of features.