India, home to numerous billionaires known for their extravagant lifestyles, has witnessed a new milestone in luxury possessions. B. Ravi Pillai, a prominent industrialist from Kollam, Kerala, has become the first Indian to own an Airbus Helicopter worth Rs 100 crore.
Ravi Pillai, the founder and chairman of the RP Group, a multinational conglomerate headquartered in Dubai, UAE, made headlines in June 2022 with his purchase of the luxurious Airbus H145 helicopter. This state-of-the-art aircraft can comfortably accommodate two pilots and up to seven passengers, and it boasts the capability to take off and land from a height of 20,000 feet above sea level. The helicopter also features energy-absorbing seats, significantly enhancing passenger safety.
Pillai’s journey to becoming a billionaire is inspirational. At 70, he holds an MBA degree from Kochi University and began his business career with a loan of Rs 1 lakh. After successfully repaying the loan and achieving significant business growth, he established his construction company. In 1978, Pillai expanded his ventures to Saudi Arabia, founding the Nasser S. Al Hajri Corporation (NSH), which specializes in construction within the oil-rich Gulf region.
Ravi Pillai’s contributions to business and society have been widely recognized. In 2010, the Indian government awarded him the prestigious Padma Shri, and in 2008, he received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman. Besides his business accomplishments, Pillai holds a Ph.D. in philosophy from Excelsior College in New York.
Pillai’s acquisition of the Airbus H145 underscores his stature and influence, further cementing his reputation as a leading figure among India’s elite.
