MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Islanders have proved the best aircraft for the Falkland Islands

THE Falkland Islands Government Air Service General Manager Sean Minto says that air frame replacement has not been included in the current internal review - “We can't get aircraft that operate better or cheaper.”

"The Britton Norman Islander aircraft are maintained in accordance with a strict maintenance schedule and are capable of continued service for several more years, during which time the future model for FIGAS operations will be established and tested," he told the Transport Advisory Committee on Friday, Once the pattern of air transport requirements within FIGAS has been established the issue of fleet suitability/replacement will be revisited. "It is not anticipated that any new aircraft type would be introduced before the 2009/2010 summer season," said Mr Minto. One of the two fishery patrol aircraft has been released for passengers flights and it is intended to do the same with the other one at a cost of £3,500 per aircraft. These aircraft were slightly restricted weight wise but had potential for tourism flights around Stanley with better visibility, he explained. With his internal review almost complete, Mr Minto said he was looking at increasing revenue through air charters and tourism. "Tourist flights need to more than double," he said, adding that tourists came to the Islands for a specific reason and would not expect the government to subsidise their fares. Penguin News