25 July, 2007
RNZAF Base Ohakea is preparing itself for the arrival of three Royal Australian Air Force F-111 strike aircraft on Friday.
The visiting aircraft and their 18 aircrew and support personnel will be hosted by the Royal New Zealand Air Force from July 27 – August 3 for five days of mountain flying training exercises.
During their stay the F-111 aircraft will fly over much of the North Island, including the East Coast and New Plymouth, and down the West Coast of the South Island as far south as Fiordland.
Royal Australian Air Force Squadron Leader Craig Whiting said the mountainous terrain of New Zealand was ideal for mountain flying training.
“We don't have the same terrain in Australia as in New Zealand. The New Zealand weather and terrain pose different challenges to our junior aircrew and these exercises help their development.”
The visiting Australian F-111 aircraft and crews belong to Number 6 Squadron RAAF.
ENDS
The aircraft are expected at Ohakea at 3pm and RAAF aircrew will be available to speak to media at 4.30pm. For further information or to register your interest please contact Flight Sergeant Paul Stein on 06 351 5490 or 021 378 001.