Getting a new presidential jet seems to be unavoidable, Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula said in Parliament on Wednesday.

"It seems to me, honourable members, this is a matter we have to talk about and agree on and close it,'' she said in Parliament.

"There is no way right now the defence force can avoid buying a VVIP (jet)," she said to howls of disdain from the opposition benches.

"I'm sure your former president before democracy used to fly SAA," she retored, turning towards the Democratic Alliance.

"There is no way we can avoid this because in the first instance, we must ensure the principal is safe."

There have been growing suggestions that President Jacob Zuma needs a new VVIP jet after reports that his current set of wings breaks down occasionally.