One of the largest planes in the United States Air Force is due at Auckland’s Whenuapai air base today.
A C-5M Super Galaxy was set to touch down at the Auckland base, delivering components for a new C-130J Hercules simulator.
The aircraft were among the largest military planes in the world, with a wingspan of 67.89m and a length of 75.3m. It stood at 19.84m tall.
The C-5M Super Galaxy’s primary mission was to transport cargo and military personnel, and was capable of carrying 127.5 tonnes of cargo.
The aircraft’s nose was used as a door, and could be lifted to allow for cargo loading.
Next to a C-130J Hercules, New Zealand’s largest air force plane, the Super Galaxy’s wingspan is 27.49m longer, the plane itself is 40.9m longer, and 7.94m taller.
An NZDF spokesperson said the full-motion simulator being delivered today would help train air and ground crews operating New Zealand’s five Hercules aircraft.
“It will also provide a safe and secure space for pilot training, loadmaster systems training and engine run training, as well as procedural and mission systems training.”
The simulator would be ready for use in 2026.
