First Round Approves New Airplane Proposal  A proposal to buy a
new airplane for Nebraska's governor and other state officials
has won first-round approval in the Legislature. Lawmakers
advanced the measure on Thursday with a 31-3 vote. A legislative
consultant has recommended buying a new twin-engine King Air
model that can carry five passengers and two pilots. It would
cost as much as $3.8 million, though money from other aircraft
sales would likely reduce that cost. The plane would replace the
state's current, 1982 Piper Cheyenne aircraft. The bill's
sponsor, Sen. Bob Krist of Omaha, says buying a new plane
instead of leasing or chartering is more cost-efficient over the
long term. Gov. Dave Heineman has said the state needs a plane
so officials can travel quickly and safely for state business.
(This photo is not the photo of the exact model that officials
want to purchase.)  Filed Under :   Locations : NebraskaOmaha
People : AirBob KristDave HeinemanPiper Cheyenne A   A   A