80th anniversary of commercial flights to the Isles of Scilly
In these rather 'trying times' for airlines and airfields it was a nice change to attend an event that celebrated 80 years of commercial flights to the Isles of Scilly. It also 'showcased' the new Lands End Airport which now boasts hard runways and modern terminal facilities. The event was organised by the airport owners (and airline operator) who have steadily increased the operations from Lands End and utilise a mixed Islander/ Twin Otter fleet. The weather conditions at Lands End can be challenging, but by utilising GPS approach technology the service no longer has to adopt the 'Creeping around the houses' situation that kept the service going in the early days.
Star turn of the day was the attendance of Rapide G-AHAG that flew from the airport in the 60's, and also the welcome appearance of Brian Neely who started Scillonia Airways after BEA moved to Penzance. If it were allowed the route is a classic for the Cessna Caravan but not under current rules. The downside was the loss of the Chocksaway Café that was a popular feature at Lands End, but every credit must go to the 'continued' use of the airport and its service to the Isles.