Aircraft Ident

[Aviator 1]

I know this is not a Flight sim matter but as we are all mad keen on aviation I will see if anyone knows anything.

I have heard these stories but are they True.

The New Zealand Airforce are looking at buying two C17 Globe masters ?
The main C17 that goes to CHCH to the Ice is McChord ?
Anyone know what is happening with the Jets at Ardmore the Sabre and the RNZAF Trainer ?
Lastly is nz getting another MoZ on the building front.

[Naki]

The RNZAF is considering their options on Hercules / 757 replacement and C-17s are been considered as one option. There is only one new build C 17 left so if they get more than one (just 1 wouldn't be an option) then they would have to get another second hand from the USAF. Other aircraft been considered (or a combo of) include the A400, C-27, C 295 & C130J. A transport review report is due out soon.

The ex RNZAF mb339 and Sabre are static exhibits. The Sabre was originally going to be restored to flight (for an overseas customer) but I think that has been canned.

There is at least 3 Mosquitos at various stages been restored to flight for overseas customers at Ardmore. 1 is locally owned but don't think the funds are there for it to remain in NZ

[Ian Warren]

Aviator , Glen the C-17s are from McChord, just outside Seattle, the LCs from the 109th NY-NAG , had few visits from them here now, amazing people to talk to , very science savy rather true USAF, I did get them on the LC history, specific this is were the first few variants ended up .

I think most word on NZ aircraft buys and plans are just here say unless your a set of keys in johns pocket ... Not so strange and due to demand the C-17 production might even open again , it has happened before .

[Aviator 1]

I can wait to hear was the story is in the C17, A400 ect. My problem is I feel is that even that I would love to see A400 in NZ will they be up to the task as they are really only a much larger C130. See the other side was Cargo, I guess they will plan to take them down to the ice. Could the Plane carry the load and if to the return trip back to Christchurch if they are unable to land for some reason. I know the C17 will be able to easy.

[dbcunnz]

Air New Zealand sells SAFE Air maintenance business to Airbus
WELLINGTON, June 22

Looks like Airbus is trying to get its foot in the door for the A400.

Safe Air has been sold to Airbus Group Australia Pacific Ltd, which maintains helicopters and aircraft, including Royal Australian Air Force Orion and Hercules planes.

"We've worked with Safe Air in the past and for us, bringing the company into Airbus strengthens our position and potential in New Zealand," said Jens Goennemann, Managing Director of Airbus Group Australia Pacific.

Safe Air, based in the provincial town of Blenheim at the top of the South Island, provides engineering support for commercial and military customers, including the Royal New Zealand Air Force.

[Aviator 1]

Yes I had heard that about safe air. Even that Airbus has its nose in will it be up to the Job. I think one task would be can it carry the Nh90. I do think at this stage Boeing has a strong hand, I know the C130 has been around but are really in the need for a upgrade. Just a personal response but Like the Ct4e air trainers that got replaced to the new Texans, Yes they are really nice but where do they go from there ? They comment overseas that they use them as a step up to a jet. Well the only RNZAF is the 757