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Two New Zealand NH90 helicopters have completed a record-breaking flight from Queensland to Auckland.
In a demonstration of the capacity and capabilities of the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF), two NH90 helicopters have completed a record-breaking journey from Australia to NZ.
The aircraft, which can reach top speeds of up to 300 kilometres per hour, flew from RAAF Base Amberley in Queensland to RNZAF Base Auckland over two days, covering 2,840 kilometres over the Coral and Tasman Sea.
Stopping in Rockhampton, Coffs Harbour, and Lord Howe Island, the longest leg of the trip spanned roughly 1,060 kilometres over four hours of air time.
Commanding Officer of Squadron 3, Wing Commander Chris Ross said this ground-breaking flight was a significant opportunity for crews to gain the necessary experience in long-distance flights.
“Between the flight to PNG and now back from Australia, we’ve now got a generation of crews who have this depth and breadth of experience of flying a significant distance.
“It’s a terrific achievement.”
The previous NH90 overwater flight record, achieved by the RNZAF last month between Australia and Papua New Guinea, was approximately 830 kilometres. This new flight record represents the importance of these aircraft and crew in reaching new achievements for the RNZAF and demonstrating technical capabilities to other air forces.
“We knew the aircraft could do it and we knew the crews were appropriately trained,” flight commander Squadron Leader Lachie Johnston said.
“It’s not unheard of for helicopters to fly long trips, but this is a unique capability in the context of doing such long legs over large bodies of water.”
Air Component Commander, Air Commodore Andy Scott said the flight, which was originally approved in 2023, is important in providing the RNZAF with data on the ability and capacity of the aircraft for long-distance flights for future missions.
“This demonstrates that given sound planning and an understanding of the actual risk, we don’t have to shy away from activities which stretch the system when they are properly planned for, risks mitigated and robust procedures are in place.”
“These types of flights give our crews confidence in the system,” he said.
