Sounds Air's Taupo flights take off!

Sounds Air launched its flights between Taupo and Wellington this morning. Pilatus PC12 ZK-PLZ positioned from Blenheim to Taupo early this morning. Like Sounds Air's first Pilatus PC12, ZK-PLS, ZK-PLZ has had its cabin upgraded for the new service which will operate three times a day on weekdays and once a day on Saturdays and Sundays.

Sounds Air started the service after entering into a six-year agreement with the Taupo District Council, 

The full Sounds Air profile has been updated at http://3rdlevelnz.blogspot.co.nz/2014/08/sounds-air-fast-scenic-way-to-cross.html

Pilatus PC12 ZK-PLZ on finals for Taupo's Runway 35

The very smart looking Pilatus PC12 ZK-PLZ

Taupo Mayor David Trewavas welcomes Sounds Air to Taupo

Taupo's two airlines!

Taupo Mayor David Trewavas, assisted by Sounds Air's Andrew Crawford and Taupo MP Louise Upston, declares the new air service officially open. 

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Louise Upston MP was the first passenger... from the left Craig Anderson who flew the first flight to Wellington and Sounds Air's chief pilot Willie Sage.

Also on the flight were community leaders and the local press

Doors closed as Sounds Air Flight 803 prepares to start up

The first flight departs for Wellington.

For the arrival of the first flight at Wellington see http://www.stuff.co.nz/business/69038521/sounds-air-makes-inaugural-flight-from-taupo-to-wellington

Ironically Sounds Air also had a charter into Taupo this morning and I was delighted to capture Cessna 208B Grand Caravan ZK-SAW. The Caravans will only be used into Taupo on charter work.

Meanwhile Sounds Air's newest Pilatus PC12 ZK-PLT has been painted in full colour scheme and it is due to cross the Tasman on Thursday.