The 757 was intended to be more capable and more efficient than the preceding 727. The focus on fuel efficiency reflected airline concerns over operating costs, which had grown amid rising oil prices during the Yom Kippur War of 1973. Design targets included a 20 percent reduction in fuel consumption from new engines, plus an additional 10 percent from aerodynamic improvements, versus preceding aircraft. Lighter materials and new wings were also expected to improve efficiency. The maximum take-off weight (MTOW) was set at 220, 000 pounds (99, 800 kg), which was 10, 000 pounds (4, 540 kg) more than the 727. Higher weights for improved payload capability in hot and high climates, where takeoff performance is degraded due to higher temperatures and elevations, were optional. NZ7572 (c/n 26634, line no: 545 ex PH-TKB) was first flown on April 15, 1993. The aircraft was delivered to Transavia Airlines on May 3, 1993 and made its last commercial flight with the Dutch airline on May 18, 2003 after which it was delivered to Air Livery (at the former BAE Systems Airbus facility at Filton (Bristol)) for a repaint in RNZAF colours on May 19. The aircraft then proceeded to Shannon, Ireland (with the RNZAF serial taped over) on May 25 for maintenance. After being test flown at Shannon on Jun 7th, the aircraft then returned to Lasham, going on to it's UK base at RAF Brize Norton the next day. The Dutch registration was cancelled on Jun 8 2003. The delivery flight was delayed by eight days in San Diego after the discovery of fuel leaks. The aircraft (call sign Kiwi 757) eventually reached Whenuapai from Honolulu via Rarotonga on Jun 30, 2003. Operational flying commenced on Jul 11, 2003. The aircraft made it's first international operation on Jul 24 to Korea via Australia where the NZ Prime Minister was collected for transport to the 50th Anniversary of the Ceasefire Commemorations.
