Britain's Brown scraps plan for own 'Air Force One'

LONDON (Reuters) - The British government has dropped plans for a long-haul private jet to be used by senior ministers and the royal family, saying that an American-style 'Air Force One' would be too costly.

Shortly before leaving office last year, former Prime Minister Tony Blair gave the go ahead for two private jets for official travel, one for short journeys and a larger plane for foreign trips that was dubbed 'Blair Force One' by the media.

But Blair's successor Gordon Brown -- whose watchword is prudence -- has decided the financial and environmental cost of a personalized long-haul plane like the one used by U.S. President George W. Bush could not be justified.

The Department of Transport said on Wednesday the long-distance travel needs of the royal household and government ministers would continue to be met by chartered or scheduled flights.

One small aircraft will be bought for official use within the United Kingdom, the department said.

"This approach provides the best solution for all users whilst minimizing the financial cost and environmental impact of the new service," the department said in a statement.

Brown's spokesman said the small plane would primarily be used by the royal family rather than members of the government.

"The prime minister normally travels in the UK by train, and if not by car," he said.

(Editing by Keith Weir)