Demonstration Flights By R.N.Z.A.F. Skyhawks

Press, Volume CIX, Issue 32303, 22 May 1970, Page 12

Demonstration Flights By R.N.Z.A.F. Skyhawks

The R.N.Z.A.F. Skyhawks would make a demonstration flight throughout New Zealand when No. 75 Squadron had finished consolidation flying at Ohakea, said an Air Force spokesman in Wellington yesterday. The itineraries and flight routes have not yet been prepared, he said.

A view of the rugged i ground attack fighter in thej sky is all Christchurch avia-i tion enthusiasts will see of it for some time. Although the Skyhawk could land at Christchurch, the international airport at Harewood will not be used for routine operations.

“The Skyhawk is a highperformance fighter aircraft which uses special procedures incorporating a braking parachute which requires servicing between landings and take-offs.” said the spokesman.

The technical facilities and men necessary for this task would not normally be available at Christchurch airport. The only two operational airfields to be used by the Skyhawks in New Zealand are at their base, Ohakea. and at Auckland (Whenuapai), where special arrester cables will be installed.

The A4K version weighs 11,0001 b when empty but can take off fully loaded at a gross weight of 24,5001 b. This provides a combat payload of up to 82001 b of missiles, bombs, roeket and machine guns. The R.N.Z.A.F.’s Skyhawks have been equipped for inflight refuelling. Tanks can be installed enabling one

Skyhawk to refuel another in flight.