Tauranga to host last NZ show for Strikemaster jets

One of two BAC Strikemaster Jets which will perform in New Zealand for the last time at tomorrow's Classics of the Sky airshow in Tauranga. Photo/supplied

Two BAC Strikemaster Jets will perform for the final time in New Zealand at tomorrow's Classics of the Sky airshow in Tauranga.

Warbirds Over Wanaka Community Trust board member Brett Nicholls said the two former Royal New Zealand Air Force planes were sold to Las Vegas company Blue Air Training. The Strikemasters were both featured in the 2016 Warbirds Over Wanaka International Airshow.

Mr Nicholls said the decision to sell was not taken lightly but the cost of future maintenance on the Strikemasters and the length of time each aircraft would be out of the air was not feasible.

"I understand that some will view this decision quite negatively, all I can say it that the cost of operating a Strikemaster jet is quite frankly eye-watering and given that these costs are only going to increase, potentially significantly, then I had to weigh up my options.

"My heart told me to keep the Strikemasters, but my head told me to take the offer, which I did."

Blue Air Training uses Strikemasters in the Close Air Support role to service contracts with the US military.

Mr Nicholls said he learned of Blue Air Training buying Strikemaster and Jet Provost spares from Australia, a main source of spare parts, so began to discuss with the company about getting the planes into their operation.

"To be honest, I was surprised at the swiftness of the deal offered, but Blue Air Training have been very upfront on what they want and that they will look after the Strikemasters in Las Vegas."

Mr Nicholls said he wanted to thank the Strikemaster team for their support and work over the years.

"It has been fun."