New Zealand Defence Force Seeks Boeing 757 Replacement by 2027

The New Zealand Ministry of Defence has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to replace two ageing Boeing 757-200 aircraft operated by the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF). The government plans to procure Boeing 737-8 or Airbus A321neo models, with delivery targeted by the end of 2027.

Released on December 19, 2024, the RFP invites qualified suppliers to participate in an open tender for commercially available, off-the-shelf aircraft. The tender requests information on aircraft type, delivery timeline, military registration options, ownership pathways, and deposit terms. However, the scope excludes maintenance, support services, and ancillary offerings.

The RNZAF’s two Boeing 757s, both over 31 years old, have faced recurring reliability issues. Notably, one aircraft carrying Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and a trade delegation diverted to Brisbane due to mechanical problems, prompting an Air New Zealand flight to complete the mission. Defence Minister Judith Collins described these ongoing issues as “embarrassing.”

Originally delivered to Transavia Airlines in 1993, the aircraft (NZ7571 and NZ7572) have been in RNZAF service since 2003. The Defence Force is currently undergoing a capability review to modernize its fleet and improve operational reliability.

Prime Minister Luxon emphasized the urgency of the replacement process, stating that it is a critical component of the Defence Force’s strategic review and will proceed “with pace.”

The deadline for proposal submissions is January 23, 2025. The new aircraft will strengthen New Zealand’s military and diplomatic transport capabilities.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com