One of the largest planes in the US Air Force touched down at Auckland’s Whenuapai air base last night.
The C-5M Super Galaxy touched down at Base Auckland carrying components for a C-130J Hercules full-motion flight simulator.
With a wingspan of 67.89m, a length of 75.3m, and a height of 19.84m, the aircraft were among the largest in the world.
Last night’s delivery was the first of two loads of simulator components. A second delivery would arrive “in the next few days”.
One of the world’s largest military planes lands in Auckland – watch on TVNZ+
RNZAF Base Auckland Commander Group Captain Brett Clayton told 1News it was “impressive” to see the massive plane land last night.
“The last time we had a C-5 here was in 1984, so it’s been a long time since we’ve seen an aircraft of this size come in, and it’s certainly generated a lot of interest.”
He thanked the US Air Force for bringing the simulator to New Zealand.
“We simply would not have been able to bring out this capability without that relationship.”
Over the two flights, the aircraft would deliver 58 crates of equipment, weighing a total of 49 tonnes. The aircraft were capable of carrying 127.5 tonnes of cargo.
The simulator would be used to train the crews who operate the RNZAF’s new fleet of five C-130J Hercules, a $1.5 billion project.
It is a full-motion simulator designed to realistically simulate the aircraft.
Once built, it will resemble a real cockpit and will have the ability to simulate various scenarios, such as emergencies or poor weather conditions.
“This is a really exciting time for the New Zealand Defence Force because the flight simulator is a critical tool that will provide pilot training, loadmaster systems training and engine run training, as well as procedural and mission systems training,” Air Component Commander Air Commodore Andy Scott said.
“It will also play a large role in ensuring our fleet is interoperable and our crews will be able to work alongside our international partners.
“Simulators improve crew preparedness and free up the aircraft for operations. They reduce maintenance and flight time on actual aircraft, saving money, time and reducing risk.”
Construction on the simulator was expected to begin soon at a purpose-built facility.
The morning’s headlines in 90 seconds, including growing threats to our security, a monster hurricane brewing, and has the robot takeover begun? (Source: 1News)
