A332 Ec-333

[J Brown]

The first "green" A332 (KC-30B) EC-333 arrived in SIN earlier today. It is o/n Singapore. Word I have recieved from a few sources is a departure late tomorrow meaning early morning arrival on Sunday in BrisVegas.

[Tsen Tsan]

Landing under 'superb' weather...

[Chris Tully]

Is this for the RAAF? If so, why did it not have paint applied by Airbus?

[Nathan Long]

Chris,

There's probably very little point in painting it until it's fully modified into tanker configuration.

[Bob C]

Yes, it is Chris.

I think this is the first KC30B EC-333 (c/n 951 ? f/f 14/04/08) to be fitted out by Boeing Australia in Brisbane with another three to follow over the next year or so (c/n 969, 1033 and 1036). The prototype KC30B EC-330 (c/n 747) will probably join them at some stage and in RAAF service they will carry the serial A39-, probably followed by the construction number ; ie A39-747,
A39-951 etc etc)>

Many systems need to be fitted including the refuelling probes and drogues. The aircraft is still a long way from being delivered to the RAAF and needs to undergo further testing. I guess it will probably be painted at Richmond when ready for delivery.

The first KC30B (EC-330) has been undergoing extensive flight testing in Europe and has the refuelling system already installed. It's been painted in an overall light grey scheme with a squadron emblem (No 34 ?) on the tail.

The RAAF was the first to purchase this type and the RAF and USAF have since followed with large orders.

[Tsen Tsan]

A/C is now due to dept SIN at 2300 hrs local (GMT +8) direct BNE. Should arrive BNE bright and early.

[lloyd fox]

Landed BNE around 0830 today.

[Bob C]

Woops, the KC30Bs will be operated by No 33 Sqn NOT No 34 Sqn as I typed (case of fat finger !)