4 January 2005
The RNZAF C-130 Hercules due to fly to Banda Aceh today has been delayed.
Banda Aceh airport is closed after an aircraft hit a buffalo on the runway.
The Hercules was loaded and waiting to take off from Jakarta when the crew was told the flight would be delayed until tomorrow.
"It's extremely frustrating for the crew and especially the air loading team who have been working long hours to load the aircraft," said the aircraft's captain, Squadron Leader Darren Web.
It's expected the Hercules, which is loaded with tents will fly to Banda Aceh early tomorrow morning.
The second C-130 Hercules, which left RNZAF Base Ohakea on 2 January has arrived in Jakarta.
After changing the flight crew, the aircraft, with the remainder of the NZDF medical team will continue on tonight to Butterworth Air Force Base in Malaysia.
ENDS
For further information please contact Danielle Coe, Defence Public Relations, 04 496 0286 or 021 676 338