The New Zealand government will soon issue tenders for replacements for the RNZAF’s CT-4E and King Air training aircraft.
The RNZAF’s 13 CT-4Es used for basic training are scheduled to reach their service life by the end of 2018, which coincides with the conclusion of a five-year lease package from Hawker Pacific for four King Airs announced in mid-October.
New Zealand’s defence minister Jonathan Coleman said: “The requirement for a modernised pilot training system with suitable aircraft is clear and the cabinet has agreed to the next step in the process, with the Ministry of Defence to issue a request for tender.”
