Chance to enjoy ride in RSAF's multi-role tanker

Overwhelming response for military flights as part of 55th anniversary open house

- Andrew Wong

On the outside, the aircraft looks menacing, with its business-like matte grey paintwork and military markings.

But step inside and you may feel like you are in a typical commercial plane albeit minus the usual luxuries like pillows and entertainment sets.

Welcome on board the A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT), the Republic of Singapore Air Force's (RSAF) next-generation tanker, capable of, among many roles, conducting air refuelling mid-flight and supporting aeromedical evacuation missions.

With its maximum carrying capacity of 111,000kg of fuel, it can be operated by two pilots and one air refuelling operator.

Acquired by the RSAF from 2018, the aircraft is one of several military planes that the public can enjoy rides in as part of the RSAF's 55th anniversary open house, to be held on Sept 9 and 10 at Paya Lebar Air Base. This will be its first physical open house in seven years.

Other crowd favourites like the static display will also make a return.

The other aircraft are the CH-47SD Chinook helicopter, the C130 transport plane, the Fokker 50 and the Singapore Youth Flying Club's DA40 trainer, which can take just three passengers.