Seaplane revival in Greece begins with first successful test flight over Corfu’s coastline
After greater than 15 years, a seaplane has as soon as once more taken off and landed on the island of Corfu. Hellenic Seaplanes efficiently accomplished its first take a look at flight, evoking reminiscences amongst older residents of the period, up till 2009, when seaplane operations have been lively and the Ionian island served as a mannequin for maritime air transport.
Following the official boarding, a sightseeing flight was performed with Angela Gerekou, Deputy Governor of the Ionian Islands, together with native representatives. The flight provided a surprising aerial perspective of Corfu.
Because of collaboration with the Corfu Port Authority, the take a look at was carried out easily and safely, reinforcing that the island is well-prepared for the total integration of seaplanes into its transportation community.
A ‘historic second’ for Corfu and the Ionian Islands
“We live a historic second for Corfu and the Ionian Islands,” stated Angela Gerekou.
“From 2004 to 2009, seaplanes served 1000’s of passengers and proved their price. Since then, I’ve given all my efforts – from the place of Minister to the Presidency of the EOT – to re-establish the institutional, technical and operational framework that may carry them again. “
“With the assist of the Authorities, the Area and Hellenic Seaplanes, we’re seeing this imaginative and prescient turn out to be a actuality. This present day belongs to all those that believed and labored to get right here.”
The Vice-Regional Governor of the Ionian Islands, Mr. Savvas Koulouris, careworn that “the Area of the Ionian Islands stands by each effort that improves connectivity and upgrades our transport.”
“With the assist of the federal government and the decisive contribution of Angela Gerekou, seaplanes are returning to reconnect our islands, increase tourism and provide a brand new, fashionable technique of transport,” he added.
“This flight is rather more than a technical achievement. It’s proof that when there’s imaginative and prescient, political will and cooperation, we will change the map of transport in Greece,” President and CEO of Hellenic Seaplanes, Nicolas Charalambous, stated.
“I want to thank the management of the federal government for his or her assist and particularly Angela Gerekou, who has been on the forefront of this effort all these years. To any extent further, we’re transferring ahead with a plan to develop an entire community of waterways, connecting islands, coastal areas and vacationer locations.”
