Dash 8 Aircraft Makes Inaugural Flights

The Solomon Airlines has now received the Dash 8 aircraft from Vincent Aviation in Wellington, New Zealand, which arrived last week.

The aircraft has been leased to the Solomon airlines by Vincent Aviation to run domestic flights for two months according to the signed agreement by the two companies.

Yesterday, the 40 seat aircraft made its first trial trips to Santa Cruz and Auki. Capt. Peter Vincent, founder of Vincent Aviation, said that the trial runs are to look at airfields in the provinces.

He also stated that they have been providing services in New Zealand and Australia. In addition, "we have also made several trips from Darwin. So our aircraft is used to operating in the tropical environment."

Capt. Vincent said that they are very much looking forward to operating here in the country. "We are doing this not only for the Solomon Airlines but also for the Solomon people," he added.

He said that they are here in the country for only two months, he adds, "we want to make this venture a success within the two months."

He further stated that they will be looking at a long term operation in Solomon Islands if the Solomon Airlines want to negotiate for such a long term arrangement.

Meanwhile, Mr. Gus Kraus, General Manger Commercial for the Solomon Airlines, told Solomon Times that the arrival of the Dash 8 aircraft is an answer to the airlines' clients.

Mr. Kraus said that having the aircraft operating for two months "would definitely cut down the flight time within the domestic sector."

He then said that after the two months operation of the aircraft in the country, "we will see what we can do for the future, but I want the country to know that we are working on something that will be permanent for the people," he added.