Whanganui Welcomes Air Chathams

The Whanganui Airport is opening its doors and encouraging the Whanganui community to join them in a fantastic welcome for Air Chathams.  On Sunday 31 July from 9:00am to 3:00pm, people can visit the airport and see the Air Chathams aircraft, visit the Airport Control Tower Restoration Project, attend ground displays from the NZ International Commercial Pilot Academy, Wanganui Aero Club and Ravensdown Aerowork.  Nostalgic DC-3 scenic flights over Whanganui in retro style will also be available throughout the day.

Air Chathams has stepped into the gap left by Air NZ as it ceases its flights to Auckland from Whanganui and the first commercial flight will take place on Monday 1 August.  The Whanganui community is delighted with the support shown and excited to have an airline willing to work with and become part of our community.

Both Air Chathams Fairchild Metroliner III and the Saab 340 will be on site and on the ground for guided tours with the Saab the predominant aircraft for the Whanganui-Auckland route. The Saab is a twin turbo-prop aircraft seating 34 people.  Also on display will be the Douglas DC-3 “Pouwhaitere”, a special treat and a remarkable aircraft previously flown under the command of the Royal New Zealand Air Force, a passenger aircraft for National Airways Corporation (NAC) and even a top-dressing stint. 

Craig Emeny, Air Chathams CEO, has enlisted the help of younger brother Brett Emeny who will be assisting in bringing the Catalina Flying Boat, Vampire Jet and Russian Yak aerobats to the Whanganui Airport for the day’s activities.

Duane Emeny, General Manager, says “we are really looking forward to our first flights on August 1, and believe the Open Day on Sunday 31 July will be a great opportunity to meet the proud people of Whanganui district.  Air Chathams has been built on strong community based ties, and caring more about people than profits.  That philosophy has carried us through the past 30 years, and will ensure we can succeed on the Whanganui-Auckland route too.

“Our investment in the larger, more modern Saab 340 is proof of our confidence in Whanganui and willingness to see the region continue to develop and grow rather than lose investment to neighbouring regions.” 
                         
For every child, whether aged 9 or 90, that wished to be one of those wonderful people in their flying machines this is the day for you.  Welcome to Whanganui Air Chathams – we’re delighted to have you here.