First ex-RNZAF C-130H set to depart for new owner, Coulson

In early April this year, the RNZAF confirmed they had sold its four remaining C-130H’s to a Firefighting company in the United States, Coulson Aviation for $9 million. In late May, the first of these aircraft will depart New Zealand’s shores for the final time, heading to California, USA, where they will be converted into firefighting aircraft.

The first Hercules to depart New Zealand, ex-NZ7005 | Photo: Noah Stohr-Waldren

The aircraft served with the RNZAF for over 60 years, but were retired earlier this year and have been parked at Woodbourne airport. They have now had their RNZAF titles removed, although the iconic 40 Squadron Insignia has remained - a nice nod to it’s past.

Ex-NZ7005 will be the first aircraft to depart with ex-NZ7002 expected to follow soon.

Before they depart, all four of the aircraft will have their registrations changed to their new Coulson registrations. The first aircraft to leave, ex-NZ7005 now carries US registration N4313L, a link to its serial number 382-4313.

Once in the US, the aircraft will undergo heavy maintenance to convert the aircraft into ‘Fire Bombers‘ and most likely a repaint into Coulson’s livery.

Once converted, the aircraft will be deployed around the world as fire-fighting tankers.

Wayne Coulson, president and chief executive of Coulson Group, says they are looking forward to integrating these aircraft into their existing fleet of six C-130H Hercules.