Theresa Ahearn
Question:47 Mrs. T. Ahearn asked the Minister for Defence the plans and financial commitment, if any, he has made to upgrade the Air Corps fleet. [23086/97]
Written Answers. - Air Corps Equipment.
Ivor Callely
Question:110 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Defence the aircraft available for use by the Air Corps; the additional aircraft that will be purchased over the next 12 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23255/97]
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:138 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the number and type of training aircraft currently available to the Air Corps; the likelihood of the provision of replacement craft in accordance with requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23317/97]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 47, 110 and 138 together.
The Air Corps fleet comprises 23 fixed wing aircraft and 14 helicopters. The numbers and types are as follows: two CASA CN-235; one Gulfstream IV; one Beech Super Kingair; seven Siai-Marchetti SF 26OW; six Cessna; six Fouga Magister CM-170; five Dauphin SA 365F; two Gazelle and seven Alouette III.
Most of the aircraft mentioned are involved from time to time in a training function but some, for example the Marchetti, Fouga and Gazelle types, are obtained specifically for training purposes. All of the aircraft have been maintained to a fully airworthy condition through scheduled overhauls and regular servicing and will continue to be kept operational apart, however, from the Fouga type. Further extensive overhauls of the Fouga aircraft which arise in the near future would be uneconomic and they will gradually be withdrawn from service.
Pending the outcome of the ongoing review of the Air Corps which is being undertaken with the assistance of consultants, proposals for the provision of new equipment for the Air Corps will not be formalised or decided on.