Air Chathams and Chatham Islands
 

Hi there, this is purely out of general interest but does anyone here fly for Air Chathams or know someone who does?

The reason I ask is because I frequently see thei Convair 580's at Auckland International, but can find very little information about them, and the Chatham Island airport on the internet.

Some of the things I have been wondering are:
What does the Chatham Island airport, and approach to the airport look like? (Anyone got photos?)

Where are the Air Chatham fleet based? If you join the airline as a pilot or cabin attendant, do you have to move to the Chathams?

Why do a population of 717 (Census 2001) need flights to the mainland 5 days per week? I can't imagine they have a full load each trip.

Thanks guys,
Andrew Wannabe

Hi Andrew

I think the planes are mostly full of crayfish and other seafood for export (big business on the island).

The airport on the Chathams has one sealed runway, 1360x45m. Otherwise there's not much there, although it did boast the first PAPI system in NZ apparently.

They've got a 580 sim out there on the Chats too...cool. Diesel genny to power it out back of an old cow shed?
Good on them!!

How would one apply for flight crew positions i have heard they treat their staff well?:)

Think you have to know thier staff well before bothering to apply. The brotherhood is alive and well but the guys seem happy and I have heard they look after you if you can get a look in.

Spent some time on pitt,....good mate from flockhouse were the "mafia" on the island...loved the place.....if any one knows Paddy Lanauze,,,say gidday for me......crazy bast@#$ds

Ha yeah, Ive had a few dealings with the Launaze family in the past...Great bunch and everyone on the Chats too. Great place. If your interested in Airchats email craig@airchathams , hes the man to speak to.