New Zealand Prime Minister's plane breaks down on way to Japan
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AFP
Synopsis
The aging fleet of New Zealand Defence Force's two 757 aircraft, both over 30 years old, has become increasingly unreliable, leading to concerns about their operational effectiveness. Defence Minister Judith Collins acknowledged the embarrassing nature of the situation and expressed the ministry's consideration of utilizing commercial flights for Luxon's future travel requirements.
By Reuters
Last Updated:
WELLINGTON: The New Zealand defence force plane flying New Zealand's Prime Minister Christopher Luxon to Japan broke down on Sunday, forcing the Prime Minister to take a commercial flight, his office confirmed on Monday.
New Zealand media reported that the Boeing 757 broke down during a refuelling stop in Papua New Guinea, leaving the business delegation and journalists stranded in Port Moresby, while Luxon flew commercial to Japan.
The New Zealand Defence Force's two 757s are more than 30 years old and their age has made them increasingly unreliable.
New Zealand Defence Minister Judith Collins told radio station Newstalk ZB on Monday that the consistent flight issues were "embarrassing" and that the ministry was looking at flying Luxon and his delegation commercially from now on.
New Zealand's defence force is struggling with ageing equipment and retaining sufficient personnel. The government has said it would like to spend more on defence but is also trying to reduce spending as the country faces economic headwinds.
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Luxon is spending four days in Japan, where he is expected to meet with Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and spend time promoting New Zealand business.New Zealand media reported that the Boeing 757 broke down during a refuelling stop in Papua New Guinea, leaving the business delegation and journalists stranded in Port Moresby, while Luxon flew commercial to Japan.
The New Zealand Defence Force's two 757s are more than 30 years old and their age has made them increasingly unreliable.
New Zealand Defence Minister Judith Collins told radio station Newstalk ZB on Monday that the consistent flight issues were "embarrassing" and that the ministry was looking at flying Luxon and his delegation commercially from now on.
New Zealand's defence force is struggling with ageing equipment and retaining sufficient personnel. The government has said it would like to spend more on defence but is also trying to reduce spending as the country faces economic headwinds.
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