Newcomer to the Falklands finally arrives
The Falkland Islands Government Air Service (Figas) anticipated the arrival of its newest aircraft on 17 March. Iits southbound flight was delayed due to the Covid-19 situation; thus the Britten Norman Islander only arrived this month.
The aircraft is named for Sir Miles Clifford; the last two letters of the registration, VP-FMC, are his initials. Sir Miles was the governor who can be considered instrumental in Figas' formation in 1948. Its service has gradually evolved from air ambulance, mail service and carrier for officials to passengers, freight, fishery patrol and scenic flights.
The aircraft, which has a maximum payload of 929 kg, replaces an Islander, which was damaged in 2018. Its arrival will bring Figas' fleet back to five units. (ah)