New Zealand Air Force Boeing 757 breaks down while flying PM to Japan

A New Zealand Royal Air Force Boeing 757-2K2 carrying the country’s Prime Minister to Japan broke down during a fuel stop at Port Moresby Jacksons International Airport (POM) in Papua New Guinea. 

The New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and around 52 business leaders and reporters were left stranded after the Boeing 757 suffered from a “fuse issue”, according to Sky News Australia. 

Prime Minister Luxon left New Zealand on June 16, 2024, for Tokyo in Japan for a four-day trip to promote business and meet with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. 

However, when refueling in the capital of Papua New Guinea it became apparent that the aircraft, registered NZ7571, would not be able to complete the journey.  

While Prime Minister Luxon was able to catch a commercial flight from Papua New Guinea to Japan the delegation stayed overnight and were due to fly to Brisbane in Australia to catch an Air New Zealand flight to Tokyo. 

According to the New Zealand Herald the group will fly to Brisbane onboard the Boeing 757 at low altitude.  

Air New Zealand Chief Executive Greg Foran, who was among the delegation, reportedly helped make the alternative travel arrangements.  

The New Zealand Defense Minister Judith Collins said the episode was “embarrassing” and the Prime Minister solely using commercial flights in the future was an option.  

The New Zealand Defense Force (NZDF) aircraft have faced a series of breakdowns while transporting the country’s Prime Ministers.  

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DefensebyIan Molyneaux2024-06-16

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