The unidentified government source said while previous reports had Buckingham Palace unable to afford maintenance costs, palace officials are spearheading the effort to purchase a new plane for the royals, The Sunday Times of London reported.

A spokesman for the queen confirmed plans for the aircraft purchase, saying senior ministers also would be able to use the jet.

Department for Transport officials have already approved any potential upgrades to a new royal jet such as a bar or entertainment systems.

Some members of the British Parliament have condemned the planned purchase, expected to cost taxpayers between $10 million and $20 million.

"The message it is sending out is jet travel is fine for those who can afford it -- in this case, members of the royal family, thanks to the generosity of the public purse," Parliament Member Norman Baker said.