Engine faults affect two R.N.Z.A.F planes

Press, 13 July 1985, Page 2

Engine faults affect two R.N.Z.A.F planes

Westport reporter Two Royal New Zealand Air Force aircraft had emergencies yesterday. An Airtourer from the Wigram base en route to Westport and an Airtrainer from the Wise Owl 40 camp at Westport both had engine problems. Squadron Leader Graham Lintott says both engines were running rough about 30 km from Hokitika and pilots, one of whom was a solo student, made emer-

gency calls. However, both planes landed safely at Hokitika and a service crew was sent from Westport to repair ignition problems in the engines. * The aircraft completed their flights to Westport without incident. Squadron Leader Lintott says both planes could probably have flown another two or three hours in spite of the engine problems. Apart from yesterday’s

incident, Exercise Wise Owl 40 has proceeded well, according to Squadron Leader Lintott. About 100 personnel, 10 Airtrainers, and two Friendships are based at Westport Airport, flying as far north as the Portage in the Marlborough Sounds, south to Hokitika, and east to Springs Junction. Tomorrow the public are invited to an open day at the camp, which will feature a formation flying display.