Written question asked by Lord Gilbert (Labour), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Astor of Hever (Conservative) on Wednesday, 24 November 2010.

Armed Forces: Aircraft

Question: To ask Her Majesty’s Government whether they anticipate that all countries now flying any version of the C130 aircraft will be able, without notice or delay, to provide any parts necessary to service the A400M aircraft.

Answer: Although they are both military transport aircraft, the A400M and C130 are very different aircraft manufactured by completely different companies and so do not share common components or parts. Equally, while the type of skills required by ground crew to service these aircraft will be similar, as with any aircraft, specific to type training is required to ensure that personnel are competent to carry out work on that particular aircraft. There was never any requirement for the A400M to be serviced without any further training by personnel who currently work on the C130. Moreover, no such wide-ranging reciprocal servicing or spares arrangements exist for the current UK C130 fleet.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 4020; 722 c330WA
Session: 2010-12
Subjects: Repairs and maintenance A400M aircraft Spare parts Hercules aircraft
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk