New Zealand Beechcraft T-6Cs on schedule

The first RNZAF T-6C takes off in June. (RNZAF)

Beechcraft says the first two T-6C advanced trainers for the RNZAF will be delivered on schedule and will depart for their new home by the end of July.

Speaking at the Farnborough Airshow on July 17, company representatives said the aircraft are scheduled to arrive at their base at Ohakea in August, and that formal acceptance was due in November.

“We are slated to deliver the certified aircraft on time and just seven months after contract award, backed by a fully integrated aircraft, logistics and training system,” Beechcraft Defense Company president, Russ Bartlett, said

The 11 T-6Cs were ordered in January to replace the RNZAF’s CT-4E and some King Airs in the basic and advanced training roles. All 11 aircraft are due to be delivered by the second quarter of next year at which time training is expected to be underway.