By John Skene
During July 2022, the first Boeing P-8A Poseidon for the RNZAF, serial NZ4801, emerged from the paint shop at Boeing’s Seattle facility.
Our new aircraft type will be operated by the RNZAF, principally from Ohakea Air Base and will provide services to various other government departments as required.
RNZAF aircrew continue to be trained on the new aircraft in the United States, ensuring New Zealand will have enough qualified personnel to operate the P-8As when they arrive.
The RNZAF has a fully qualified P-8A aircrew operating as instructors with the US Navy gaining operational experience with the new capability.
The No. 5 Squadron, which currently operates the Orion aircraft will shift from Whenuapai to Ohakea air force base to operate the P-8A aircraft.
From The ‘Aviation Tales’ newsletter by John Skene – for more see www.aviation-tales.com