27 June 2007
The two New Zealand Defence Force Iroquois helicopters serving in Timor Leste are due to bring up 150 flying hours by the end of the week.
The helicopters and 32 Royal New Zealand Air Force support personnel are based with 150 New Zealand soldiers assisting security efforts in the troubled nation.
Since arriving on April 23 2007, the helicopters have transported more than 450 passengers, primarily New Zealand and Australian troops, and more than four tonnes of freight.
Helicopter detachment commander Squadron Leader Tim Evans said operations during the upcoming parliamentary elections would result in the Iroquois achieving the 150 flying hours milestone.
"As many of Timor's villages have poor access by road, the helicopter involvement in the election process will be the pickup of full ballot boxes in order to enable timely collection and counting of the votes."
Other tasks have included transporting troops and supplies and assisting with aero-medical evacuation.
During Timor’s presidential elections the helicopters assisted by transporting officials, ballot boxes and voting screens to polling booths in outlying regions.
The current rotation of Air Force support personnel is due to be replaced at the end of July.
ENDS
For further information please contact James Heffield, Defence Public Relations on 04 496 0286 or 021 676 338.