Terrible news today as the event has been cancelled ! Dreams shattered.
To: Great Air Race — Stakeholders, Partners and Entrants
Re: GREAT AIR RACE
It is with deep regret that the organisers of the Great Air Race today announced that the proposed E-Race event between London and Darwin over November and December 2019 has been cancelled.
Following some 15 months of interaction and engagement with key Australian and international aviation and foreign affairs bodies, the organisers have been unable to secure agreements with the relevant government authorities to guarantee safe passage for all participants, organisers and officials through the proposed 25 ports and countries on the route, by the deadline of 15t April 2019, which leaves no option but to cancel the race.
With the planned route reflecting the amazing journey of Ross and Keith Smith and their crew in 1919, the organisers have been faced with many challenges, including dealing with a number of geo-political hot spots, that cannot be accessed by the Great Air Race without full government engagement, chaperoning and on-ground coordination, leaving the Great Air Race effectively with no where to go, except cancellation.
We would like to sincerely thank and recognize all of the stakeholders who have proactively supported the Great Air Race 2019 event concept, especially,
· the thirty three teams who have shared the vision and dream and officially entered.
· the aviation and industry stakeholders and suppliers who have been incredibly enthusiastic and supportive in building the event model.
· the Northern Territory government in Australia, who, in particular have supported the grand vision from the inception.
A principal goal of creating the Great Air Race 2019 event, was to bring to life and generate global recognition for the original Great Air Race and the remarkable achievements of Ross and Keith Smith and the crew in 1919, some 100 years ago. We encourage everyone who has been involved with the Great Air Race project or who has an interested in aviation history to maintain the passion and ensure that through social media and digital marketing, that these amazing feats will be celebrated on the 10th December 2019, the 100th Anniversary of the original Great Air Race.
The Directors and Staff
GREAT AIR RACE - 2019