Source: New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF)
A return trip to Fiji for maritime patrols by the Royal New Zealand Air Force’s (RNZAF) MC-12K King Air has provided a further opportunity to demonstrate the aircraft’s ability to operate in the South West Pacific region.
Aircrews on the MC-12K King Air regularly provide maritime patrols to detect and deter illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing in New Zealand’s exclusive economic zone.
Earlier this year, an MC-12K King Air flew to Fiji in what was a first for RNZAF’s No 42 Squadron deploying the aircraft to the South West Pacific region.
The aircrew worked in support of the Fijian Maritime Essential Services Centre, conducting patrols searching for IUU fishing and also pleasure craft activity in Fijian waters as Fijian authorities strive to combat transnational organised crime in their region.
On the aircraft’s second deployment to Fiji, patrols were carried out in various locations including a small island chain approximately 150 nautical miles south of Nausori, and also over an area of approximately 9500 square kilometres spanning Yasawa to Kia Island.
The recent return to Fiji enabled the aircrew to also demonstrate the aircraft’s capabilities to neighbouring Tonga. At the end of the Fijian operation, the crew and aircraft departed for its first visit to Tonga, and took two members of His Majesty’s Armed Forces, with experience in maritime surveillance operations, on board as the aircraft patrolled in the vicinity of Pangai Island in the Ha’apai group.
Air Component Commander, Air Commodore Andy Scott, said it was great to build on the success of the first deployment with another into the region.
“The South West Pacific provides an excellent operating environment for our crews and enhances the strong partnerships between New Zealand and our friends in the region.”
Squadron Leader Craig Graham, who was the detachment commander for the deployment, said the return visit to Fiji was also important for the crew as it provided an opportunity for more junior pilots to step up. Flight Lieutenant Jamie Hull deployed on both operations captaining patrols in Fiji and the international transit flights back to New Zealand.
Squadron Leader Graham said Flight Lieutenant Hull had only been flying in the MC-12K King Air for two years and this deployment provided an opportunity for him to gain valuable experience by leading his crew on a complex operation.
