The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have just wrapped up a four-day tour of Colombia, invited by Vice President Francia Márquez. Their visit focused on promoting their charity work, particularly highlighting the need for online safety for children. As Prince Harry and Meghan Markle return home to their young children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, questions linger about the nature of their travel arrangements.
During their time in Colombia, the couple was praised for their commitment to their causes. However, much attention has been drawn to how the Sussexes traveled, given their history of luxurious and often criticized air travel.
While it’s unclear whether Harry and Meghan opted for a commercial flight or a private jet for the nearly eight-hour journey from Los Angeles to Bogotá, their previous choices suggest they might have flown privately. According to reports, the Sussexes have been known to use a lavish 12-seater Cessna 680 Citation Sovereign plane. This aircraft, valued at approximately $7.4 million (£5.7 million), boasts state-of-the-art interiors, including mood lighting, spacious bathrooms, and onboard WiFi with executive desks. The plane is designed for both comfort and safety, with custom mechanics ensuring smooth flights.
The couple previously used a private jet for their trip to London during the late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022. It was a practical decision, given that it was their children’s first long-haul flight to the UK. However, such choices have often led to public scrutiny, given their advocacy for environmental causes.
Despite their preference for luxury air travel, the Sussexes have also flown commercial. For instance, during a brief stop in London on their return from Nigeria in May, they reportedly flew First Class on a British Airways Boeing 777.
The issue of private air travel isn’t exclusive to the Sussexes. Senior members of the British royal family, including King Charles, also use private jets for official duties. The UK government repurposed the Airbus A330 jet for royal and governmental use in 2015, at a cost of £10 million. King Charles, known for his environmental advocacy, ensured that the aircraft’s fuel tanks were filled with 40% sustainable aviation fuel. However, the King himself took nine private jet flights in the financial year 2022-2023, according to the sovereign grant report.
As Harry and Meghan continue their work, their travel choices remain a point of contention. While their dedication to their causes is undeniable, the balance between their public image and private luxuries continues to spark debate.
