Aircraft for fisheries surveillance
The Minister said the Air Corps’ two Beech aircraft had proved suitable as an interim measure pending purpose-designed marine aircraft; further purchases would be considered when those became available.
asked the Minister for Defence if he considers that the King-Air 200 Aircraft operated by the Air Corps is the most suitable aircraft for fisheries surveillance and other marine roles, if the purchase of further such aircraft is under consideration for this purpose or if aircraft specially designed for use in marine environment, referred to by his predecessor in the Dáil on the 14 June 1979 is still under consideration, and if he considers the use of the King-Airs an interim measure pending the acquisition of more suitable aircraft in terms of range and performance or as a more suitable replacement for the Dove aircraft at present being offered for sale.
Comment on this
The two Beech aircraft operated by the Air Corps have proved suitable so far for fisheries surveillance. They are regarded as an interim measure pending the development of aircraft specially designed for use in a marine environment. The question of further purchases will be considered when such aircraft become available.
A Beech King-Air 200 was chosen last year as a Dove replacement. Delivery is being effected this week.