The Beginnings of Vijay Mallya
Vijay Mallya was born in Kolkata, India, in 1955. He was the son of Vittal Mallya, a prominent businessman and politician. Vijay Mallya went on to study at St. Xavier’s College in Kolkata before moving to the United States to attend the University of California, Los Angeles. He graduated with a degree in business administration in 1976.
The Rise of Vijay Mallya
After completing his education, Vijay Mallya returned to India and joined his father’s business, United Breweries Group. He quickly rose through the ranks and became the chairman of the company in 1983. Under his leadership, United Breweries Group became one of the largest conglomerates in India, with interests in beer, spirits, aviation, and more.
The Purchase of the A319
Vijay Mallya’S A319 Private Jet Source Bing.com
In 2005, Vijay Mallya made headlines when he purchased a brand new Airbus A319 for his personal use. The jet was reportedly worth around $62 million at the time, making it one of the most expensive private jets in the world. The A319 was customized to Mallya’s specifications and included a number of luxurious features and amenities.
The Features of the A319
The A319 was designed to be a flying palace, with every inch of the jet customized to Mallya’s liking. The jet included a master suite with a king-sized bed, a private office, and a bathroom with a shower. The main cabin was divided into several areas, including a lounge, a dining room, and a bar. The jet also featured a state-of-the-art entertainment system, with multiple TVs and a surround sound system.
The Amenities of the A319
Vijay Mallya’S Private Jet Amenities Source Bing.com
In addition to its luxurious design, the A319 also included a number of amenities to make flying as comfortable as possible. The jet had a full kitchen, with a professional chef on board to prepare meals. There was also a selection of fine wines and spirits available for passengers to enjoy. The jet had a maximum range of around 7,800 kilometers, allowing Mallya to fly almost anywhere in the world.
The Controversy Surrounding the A319
Vijay Mallya’s purchase of the A319 was controversial, given his mounting debts and financial problems. In 2012, he was forced to sell a portion of his stake in United Breweries Group to pay off his creditors. In 2016, he fled to the United Kingdom to avoid arrest for charges of fraud and money laundering. He has been fighting extradition to India ever since.
The Legacy of the A319
Despite the controversy surrounding its owner, the A319 remains one of the most luxurious and impressive private jets ever built. Its design and amenities set a new standard for luxury air travel, and it is still regarded as one of the most expensive private jets in the world. While Vijay Mallya may have fallen from grace, his A319 remains a symbol of his extravagant lifestyle and love of luxury.