Aeronautic Club lands in Newcastle
Aligning his aircraft on the runway, a pilot braces himself for take-off. With ideal weather conditions, his plane soars off and he remains behind. “Watch how I make her flip,” he laughs from the ground.
No, this is not the latest in pilotless aviation technology being tested at Newcastle Airport. In fact, the pilots are unable to climb into their aeroplanes. The Rand Model Aeronautic Club from Johannesburg set up shop in Newcastle for four days of flying.
According to the club’s chairperson, Chris Allsopp, the club arrived in Newcastle on Thursday, February 15. This formed part of a social visit.
“The Newcastle Model Aircraft Club’s hospitality is amazing, as they always make us feel right at home,” explained Chris, stating the Rand Model Aeronautic Club has been visiting Newcastle for the past 27 years.
The reason for visiting allows the club members to interact with members from clubs outside of their home environment. Furthermore, the visit allows pilots to enjoy flying their planes in a different venue. “The facilities in Newcastle are great. The weather is perfect, as it isn’t too hot.”
Extreme heat hampers with the planes’ flying abilities, as it makes the air thinner.
With approximately 15 pilots setting up camp at the Newcastle Airport, Newcastle’s skies took on a variety of colours and the sounds of droning engines.
