Government takes ‘back-up’ plane to Pacific Islands Forum
The New Zealand government utilized a backup Defence Force plane to transport officials to the Pacific Islands Forum in Palau. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon defended the decision, citing limited regional connectivity and the need to transport large delegations.
Why it matters
The use of government aircraft for diplomatic missions often sparks debate regarding fiscal responsibility and the adequacy of state infrastructure.
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The 'back-up' NZDF757 parked in Cairns. Photo / Thomas Coughlan
The Government has taken a “back-up” plane to the Pacific Islands Forum leaders meeting in Palau.
Both of the NZ Defence Force 757s have been deployed on the mission to take Prime Minister Christopher Luxon to the forum’s leaders meeting. An earlier flight took Foreign Minister Winston Peters, though he has since left.
Air Component Commander Air Commodore Andy Scott told the Herald in a statement: “This important meeting is being held in a comparatively remote location where air services and options are limited, and therefore a back-up aircraft has been positioned to assist if required for any reason”.
Luxon travelled on one of the 757s on Wednesday, stopping to refuel in Cairns where the two planes could be seen side-by-side.
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