I know you should never say never but I will go out on a limb and say that I don’t think we will ever see 3 serviceable Strikemasters on the same bit of tarmac in New Zealand again. Let alone 3 ex RNZAF ones.
On return from the Tauranga airshow this morning the 70 and 62 which are about to head to the US were parked next to 72 which is staying here, for the final few photos.
It has been a great 6 years with these aircraft and we look forward to maintaining our links with 72 as it continues to fly in New Zealand. In 1992 when the aircraft dis appeared to Australia I don’t think anyone ever thought there would be a flying Strikemaster in New Zealand again but thanks to Brett Nicholls, Brian Hall and Charles Davis we have been fortunate to see them flying at aviation events all around the country.
We will follow the continuing flying on 62 and 70 in the US with interest, a little ironic that another couple of our dated and “clapped out” aircraft are finding a new home in the US being used for defence contracts.
Last tails.
last time together.
They will be sorely missed, thanks Brett for a) the flight in 70 and b) showing them off at airshows around the country
I am disappointed to have missed the Tauranga air show yet again having not seen any advertising of it here in Auckland.