NEW ZEALAND AVIATION TAKES OFF IN VIETNAM
29 Oct 10

Song Ngoc | vir.com.vn

New ZealandPrime Minister John Key highlighted strong aviation ties between New Zealand and Vietnam in Ho Chi Minh City this morning.

The breakfast event also marked the signing of a letter of intent between New Zealand company Pacific Aerospace and Vietnam's Survey and Aerial Mapping Corporation (Samcom) for the purchase of two P-750 XSTOL aircrafts, to take place next month.

The New Zealand aircraft will be used for aerial survey and mapping work and have been chosen for low operating cost and high reliability.

"Despite having manufactured well over 700 aircrafts, which we have sold all around the world, this is our first sale to Vietnam. It is a very important step towards developing Southeast Asia as one of our key markets for the P-750 XSTOL," said Damian Camp, chief executive of Pacific Aerospace.

The deal represents just one of the ways New Zealand and Vietnam have been working together in the aviation sector. New Zealand pilot training, airport redevelopment and baggage handling systems are also being utilised here.

"New Zealand has long been recognised for its innovation in aviation," said New Zealand Trade Commissioner and Consul General to Vietnam, Graham Sims.

"Today's signing of a letter of intent to purchase two aircraft from Pacific Aerospace is a big step forward for New Zealand aviation in Vietnam. The New Zealand aviation service sector is also providing significant input into the development of new and upgraded airport facilities".

New Zealandis known worldwide for its advanced aviation industry, including creating high-grade aluminium used on the wings of Airbus' new A380 and 3D graphics management systems used by United States aerospace and defence companies.

New Zealand's aviation industry is estimated to have grown from a total of NZ$6.8 billion in 2005 to NZ$9.7 billion in 2009.