Hon Phil Goff
Minister of Defence

23 October 2008
Media statement

No damage to Skyhawks

A small amount of rainwater has entered the cockpits of four of the 17 Royal New Zealand Air Force Skyhawks kept at Woodburn Air Base, but there is no damage to the aircraft, Defence Minister Phil Goff said today.
“I am advised by the Air Force that there is no damage to the aircraft, and no impact on the sale or resale value of the aircraft,” Phil Goff said.

“On inspection, dampness was found on some components. These have since been removed and serviced at negligible cost, and the cockpit seals repaired.

“The cause of water entry is likely to be the improper re-sealing of cockpit canopies after a routine maintenance inspection.

Meanwhile, the sales process of the aircraft is continuing, Mr Goff said.

“There is a clear process applying to the sale of the aircraft and two companies are bidding for US DOD contracts for air training support, which would require the aircraft.

“These contracts are in the process of being tendered. If either of the bids is successful, we have an undertaking from both the State Department and the Pentagon that they will fast-track approval for the sale of the aircraft," Phil Goff said.

ENDS

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