Queen Elizabeth II eyeing royal jet

LONDON, Sept. 27 (UPI) -- Britain's Queen Elizabeth II is considering having a private jet built that would serve as her executive air transport, a source says.

The unidentified source said the head of Britain's royal family has been taking an active role in the planning for the potential royal jet, which would seat up to 13 people and only be used by members of the family, The Daily Telegraph reported Saturday.

"For the first time in her 50-year reign, her majesty has decided to buy her own plane. It will be exclusively for her use and that of the royal family," the source said.

"She has taken a very personal interest in its design and it's fair to say it will be far from an ordinary aircraft -- it will be literally fit for a queen."

A source told The Sun the jet could be supported by the British public since royal family members were credited with spending more than $10 million in travel expenses last year.

"From the public's point of view it's good news, as it will save taxpayers' cash," the anonymous source said.

"It will be used on official public engagements and be far better value for money."