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On what date did the Defence Force first become aware that one of its King Air aircraft would be needed to fly the Prime Minister from Whanganui to Auckland on 23 July 2026 and how was the Defence Force notified of that need for an aircraft?

Answered Question 35628 (2026)
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Asked by

Damien O'Connor

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • On what date did the Defence Force first become aware that one of its King Air aircraft would be needed to fly the Prime Minister from Whanganui to Auckland on 23 July 2026 and how was the Defence Force notified of that need for an aircraft?

Answered by

Hon Paul Goldsmith

List MP · National Party · Minister of Defence

Answer

On 20 July 2026, following an initial inquiry and confirmation of aircraft availability on the same day, the Prime Minister’s Office requested VIP transport.