Friday 7 May saw a new lease on life for the two gate guardians. After many years of standing outside on plinths, it was time for the aircraft to move to a new location.
HISTORY
The first aircraft to be placed on gate guard occurred on 27 May 1995. It was an Aermacchi MB 326 Atlas Mk1 Impala, tail number 507. This aircraft was a member of the Silver Falcons during its operational status, and wore the last colour scheme, when the Impala was the mainstay aircraft of the team. Through the years this aircraft had suffered badly from the harsh weather that the Eastern Cape experiences.
The second aircraft to be placed on a plinth was the Piaggo P166 ‘Albatross’. This aircraft was donated by the late Mike Beachyhead (of Thunder City fame) and was built up using parts from two aircraft to make up the display.
About two years ago the aircraft toppled off its plinth onto the rocks beneath it during a storm, causing significant damage to the horizontal and vertical stabilizer. During the past couple of months vandals have also stolen the rudder and a baggage hatch cover.
This story is from the June 2022 edition of SA Flyer Magazine.
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This story is from the June 2022 edition of SA Flyer Magazine.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
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