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Last chance to see current Air Search plane

ISLANDERS will have the chance to bid farewell to the Islander which has served Channel Islands Air Search so well since being introduced as a stand-in replacement at the annual Guernsey Aero Club open day tomorrow.

A picture taken by the Guernsey Aero Club of last year’s open day with the CIAS Islander, G-BEXJ, on the right in the background
A picture taken by the Guernsey Aero Club of last year’s open day with the CIAS Islander, G-BEXJ, on the right in the background / Guernsey Press

The aircraft, which will be replaced by a new one imminently, was first on the scene in the search for Premier League footballer Emiliano Sala earlier this year.

‘We had hoped to have the new aircraft on display,’ said Aero Club chairman Gary Elson, ‘but it is now due into Guernsey during the following week.

‘However, this will give the public the chance to look over G-BEXJ, the aircraft that took part in the search for Emiliano and his pilot, David Ibbotson. Air Search crew members will also be on hand to answer questions on how such operations are conducted.’

In addition to the CIAS Islander, Jersey Skydive is planning to attend with its Cessna 206 and give details of the tandem free-fall jumps it is offering in August.

The Air Scouts Jet Provost cockpit, Aurigny’s Junior Joey, an Eclipse jet and an Airport Fire Service tender will also be on view.

Guernsey Flight Training will be selling reduced price trial lessons on a first come, first served basis.

‘It is a relaxed day for the children to get close to some aircraft and for the parents to enjoy the great view of the runway,’ Mr Elson added.

. The event runs from 11am to 4pm at the Aero Club in Planque Lane.

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