Transformation and VIP Role
The role of the squadron gradually changed to VIP flights (DC-3 and Devon), multi-engine conversion courses (Oxford and Devon), and general transport flying around New Zealand and the South Pacific. During the visit of Queen Elizabeth in 1953/54, 42 Squadron DC-3 Dakotas carried her around New Zealand. In the late 1950s the squadron's inventory comprised only Dakotas and Devons, and in the mid 1960s the Dakota fleet was enlarged to six aircraft.
The reliable but aging Dakotas were retired in 1977 and replaced by four Andover twin-engine transports. Two (NZ7622 and NZ728), were converted to full VIP configuration; NZ7625 was semi-converted and NZ7627 remained in the utility configuration.
To accommodate the reformed No. 2 Squadron RNZAF with A-4 Skyhawks at Ohakea in 1984, 42 Squadron moved to Whenuapai) and absorbed the Andovers of No. 1 Squadron RNZAF which was disbanded. The squadron then had 10 Andovers.
Read more about this topic: No. 42 Squadron RNZAF
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