The Logistics
First hurdle we faced when we returned from Temora was just what planes
we will take! Roger had explained that the NZJMA and Air New Zealand had
worked together to install protocols for aeromodellers travelling across the Tasman that allowed the transport of turbine engines, fuel systems and batteries.
These protocols were not to be sneezed at because without them you were at
the mercy of the airline check in staff who could, and do, easily refuse passage
of your models.
In addition, we had some serious box weight and size limitations that restricted the maximum box length to 2200mm and 32kg. Although I have some
smallish airframes, Rob was certainly limited as his were too big to make the trip
easily, so we made the decision to put together some dedicated airframes for
the trip and fit them out with running gear borrowed from other planes.
Our choice of airframe was the Falcon 120, originally meant as a pusher
prop plane but converted into gas turbine powered. At this point of the story, I
can’t bring myself to discuss the Falcons in any great depth as the conversion
was not an easy task and the quality was less than what I had expected. A bit
disappointing, but they met the main criteria of being able to be packed down
into a small size. A word of advice though, when you are travelling over 2500km
away from home with only one plane, it should be a good one!
The NZJMA/Air New Zealand protocol is a multi-page document titled:
‘Certificate of Approval of Model Aircraft for Transportation as
Passenger Baggage on Passenger-Carrying Aircraft’. Issued by MFNZ.
This document gives a checklist that among other things explains how all
fuel systems must be flushed with alcohol (IPA preferred) and all batteries are
discharged and have their plugs taped to inhibit short circuit, in addition the
batteries must be individually wrapped in bubble wrap and placed in their own
cardboard box. Whilst at first this document seemed intimidating, it was a great
way to ensure we were ready for the trip and it was a very easy process to achieve.
Once this document was filled out and signed by each of us, we forwarded them to Roger who in turn
sent them to the responsible person at Air NZ. About one week later we received letters back from Flight
Operations and Safety section of Air NZ clearly explaining to Air NZ staff in both countries:This is to advise that the model aircraft, including engine(s), carried by Mr Shane Bartlett are approved for carriage as checked baggage on the Air New Zealand operated services detailed below.
Mr Bartlett is to ensure that the procedures developed jointly by Air New Zealand and Model
Flying NZ, are followed to ensure that the model aircraft engine(s) being transported, contains
no hazardous materials, that the propulsion and ignition/electrical system(s) are rendered inoperative and protected from short circuit, any motors are disconnected from electrical sources,
any fuel and/or oil systems are appropriately drained, flushed and cleaned or alternatively removed so as to render harmless, prior to presentation to the airline.
Please extend Mr Bartlett
every assistance with the
acceptance of this item,
within the constraints of
published checked baggage
allowances on Air New
Zealand operated services.
Airborne
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