Time to, say goodbye

 

This from Air Chathams' Facebook page today

Today is emotional at Air Chathams! We are saying bon voyage to our classic workhorse the Convair 580. This will be the last take-off of the very last passenger Convair in the world. Before retiring this craft to the National Toy and Transport Museum in Wānaka. As mementos of our affection, CEO Craig Emeny and the Auckland team wrote farewell messages on the rear pressure bulkhead of the Convair. Craig says “There's a very special place for this aircraft not only in my life and my companies' life but really also to the Chatham Islands community as well”. For all plane spotters, the Convair ETD from Auckland domestic Airport is 11:30 am and ETA in Wanaka at 2.30pm this Saturday.

I am gutted that I am unable to be at Auckland airport to say farewell to the ZK-CIB, the aeroplane that revolutionised the Chatham Islands connection with New Zealand.

Thank you Craig for your vision and CIB for your service