Mass landing of amphibious aircraft

Wanaka: A spectacular mass landing of amphibious aircraft on Lake Wanaka is being planned as part of next year’s Warbirds Over Wanaka International Airshow.

Organisers were keen to hear from any owners of these aircraft that would like to be part of what is believed to be a first for New Zealand, general manager Ed Taylor said.

The display is being planned as part of the airshow’s second free public event on the Wanaka lakefront, on the afternoon of Friday, March 25th will be the fifteenth Warbirds Over Wanaka International Airshow.

Mr Taylor said organisers were blown away by the response to the first lakeside ‘mini airshow’ held as part of the 2014 airshow.

“Crowd estimates were put at 7,000 people. There were people picnicking all along the beach and watching from upstairs bars and businesses in Wanaka and any vantage point.”

The theme last year was the role aviation played in WWI. “For 2016 we want to celebrate amphibian aircraft. The centre piece of the display will be the stunning Catalina Flying Boat (ZK-PBY) which has recently undergone a major refurbishment,” said Ed.

“The Catalina hasn’t been seen at an airshow for a number of years now and we are rapt to have this beautiful aircraft make her first major public outing since the restoration, here in Wanaka, especially having her land on the lake.”

It’s hoped the Catalina will be flanked on either side by numerous other amphibious aircraft which will land on the lake at the same time. “We already have a number of amphibious aircraft lined up for the display but would love to hear from any other owners who would like to be considered for the event.” said Ed.

Ed says along with the aircraft landing on the lake they hope to have other displays which will “light up the sky. We’re still in the planning stages but once again we are looking to educate and entertain the crowd”.

Ed says Wanaka Mitre 10 has already agreed to support this event again by providing a large marquee for local community groups from which to operate fundraising food stalls.

The Catalina and other aircraft will be available for flights by the public during Rides Day on Monday 28th

ENDS

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