Dutch inspectors found last year numerous safety problems on planes rented by NATO transiting the country, including those transporting troops, the ANP news agency reported Saturday.
Aircraft rented from east European countries had the worst safety problems, such as cracked cockpit windshields, worn tires or failure to calculate sufficient fuel reserves, according to a spokeswoman for the transport ministry.
Eighteen safety violations discovered last year were so serious the planes were grounded until repairs were made.
After having been warned by the Dutch authorities, NATO indicated it had difficulties finding air companies willing to fly into war zones.
