RNZAF NH90s Set Record with 1,765-Mile Flight from Australia to New Zealand
Two Royal New Zealand Air Force NH90 helicopters have completed a record-breaking journey, flying from Australia to New Zealand over a vast expanse of water. The marathon flight, which covered 1,765 miles, demonstrated the aircraft's unique capability and the confidence of its crew.
The NH90s, chosen in 2005 to replace the RNZAF's UH-1 Iroquois, showcased their utility by breaking the previous over-water flight record of 521 miles. Each helicopter carried two 1,100lb external fuel tanks, enabling them to cover the long distance. The flight gave crews valuable long-distance flying skills and boosted their confidence in the system.
Both helicopters landed safely at RNZAF Base Ohakea on September 30, marking a significant achievement for the Royal New Zealand Air Force and the NH90 programme.
The NH90's successful flight has proven its worth as a replacement for the UH-1 Iroquois. With eight NH90s in service since 2015 and a ninth as an extra, the RNZAF can now operate over vast areas with confidence, thanks to the aircraft's demonstrated capabilities.
