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New Zealand warns of flying in Chinese-made MA60 aircraft
 

WELLINGTON, New Zealand, Aug. 12 (UPI) -- New Zealand has warned its nationals in the Pacific island country of Tonga against flying in a Chinese-made aircraft recently acquired by Real Tonga airline.

New Zealand also suspended millions of dollars in tourism aid until the safety issues surrounding the aircraft are addressed.

The New Zealand Herald reported the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade posted a travel advisory saying the aircraft type "has been involved in a significant number of accidents in the past few years" around the world.

The turboprop MA60, built by Chinese-government-owned Xi'an Aircraft Industrial Corp. in Xi'an, isn't certified to fly in New Zealand, the ministry's travel warning said.

"Travelers utilizing the MA60 do so at their own risk," the ministry advisory said.

Foreign Affairs Minister Murray McCully also said aviation experts have "serious concerns" about the MA60 aircraft.