RNZAF BOEING 757 TO PERFORM AT RIAT22
The organizers of the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) have confirmed that the Royal New Zealand Air Force will be sending the Boeing 757-2K2 to perform a flying display at this year’s event.
The aircraft is operated by the No. 40 (Transport) Squadron RNZAF based at RNZAF Base Auckland. No. 40 Squadron operates two Boeing 757-2K2 aircraft in passenger and freight roles.
The RNZAF Boeing aircraft provide a strategic airlift to carry personnel and equipment globally in support of operations and deployments. The aircraft are also used regularly for the carriage of VIPs as well as ministerial and trade missions around the world. They are crewed by two pilots and up to six cabin crew.
Two Boeing 757-200 were received in 2003. Modifications commencing in 2007 saw the aircraft fitted with an upper deck cargo door to facilitate an 11-pallet cargo capability, strengthened floor in order to carry large and heavy cargo, internal air stairs, upgraded engines and flight deck enhancements including full compliance with current global air navigation specifications and standards.
Statement from the organizers;
“Last appearing in the flying at RIAT in 2010 and on static in 2016, the Royal New Zealand Air Force will once again be sending their Boeing 757 to perform in this year's flying display. Operated by 40 squadron, their agile display of this airliner has previously proved popular with visitors to the Air Tattoo. The RNZAF operate a pair of 757s in the strategic freight and passenger role which was expended in 2007 by the inclusion of an upper cargo deck and the ability to carry up to 11-pallets of cargo together with in-built air stairs allowing for the aircraft to operate from austere airfields without infrastructure.”
