The air intelligence unit (AIU) of the customs department at Mumbai airport seized and sealed two aircraft — a Falcon 900 Ex and an Airbus 319
MUMBAI: The air intelligence unit (AIU) of the customs department at Mumbai airport seized and sealed two aircraft — a Falcon 900 Ex and an Airbus 319 — belonging to Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) for non-payment of duty.
Mukesh Ambani had gifted the A-319 luxury jet to wife Nita on her 44th birthday less than a year ago.
The two aircraft, together valued at Rs400 crore, belong to Reliance Commercial Developers Pvt Ltd (RCDPL).
Though both aircraft remain with RCDPL for safety and maintenance, they have been sealed and cannot be used till the duty and fine, totally amounting to Rs98 crore, are paid.
The customs says the two aircraft were imported via New Delhi to be rented out for charter flights. But they were only used privately.
Aircraft meant for private use attract duty at the rate of 18% and require an import licence. The rate for commercial use aircraft is 10%.
“An examination of the log book maintained by Reliance Commercial Developers Pvt Ltd, an RIL Group company, shows that the planes were used only privately and not hired out to any third party since arriving in India,” said a senior customs officer. “Hence we seized them.”
Both aircraft were seized and sealed by the AIU at their Mumbai hangars on Thursday night. They were later handed over to RCDPL for safety and maintenance. “We have issued them a show-cause notice,” said the officer. “They cannot use the planes till they pay the duty and fine.”
In a press statement, Reliance Industries said: “The authorities as a matter of routine procedure have sent out notices to several non-scheduled operators. As part of this routine, two Reliance Commercial Developers Pvt Limited aircraft were detained and handed back to the company thereafter. Reliance is fully complying with all procedures as notified by the concerned authorities.”
The aircraft were imported in November and December. The A-319 has a capacity of 180 passengers and is valued at Rs230 crore. The Falcon 900 can fly 14 passengers.
Mukesh’s gift had made headlines for its features like a bedroom, Jacuzzi, sky bar, and lounge. The Airbus was converted into a duplex residential facility with a large bedroom and living room.
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