Ice Berg Scenic Flights

23 November 2006

For the first time since 1931 gigantic ice bergs have been sighted close to the NZ coastline. Small aircraft and helicopters have been running flights to view the bergs from points along the south eastern coastline for several days but the spectacle, due to its location, has been reserved for “southerners”.

Wellington based air charter operator Vincent Aviation is now offering a “once in a lifetime” opportunity to view the giant bergs to people who live further a field utilising its 40-passenger Dash 8 Jet Prop aircraft. Commencing this Saturday morning Vincent Aviation will be offering Champagne flights directly from Christchurch, flying over several of the larger ice bergs then returning to Christchurch.

“Because of the range and speed of the Dash 8 airliner we are able to economically fly the longer distance from Christchurch directly to the ice field, spend around half an hour in the area to give all passengers a spectacular view and then fly back to Christchurch detouring via Banks peninsular and the city weather permitting. We anticipate flying to the ice berg area at around 20,000 feet giving great views of the spectacular countryside along the route as well as the Southern Alps including Mt Cook. Once in the area of the bergs, the aircraft will descend to around 1000 ft providing wonderful views aided by the Dash 8’s high wing configuration. The aircraft carries a flight attendant and is fitted with full galley and toilet facilities so passengers can not only enjoy a once in a lifetime viewing of the ice bergs, but can also relax in comfort and enjoy a complimentary bubbly and great food along the way” said Managing Director, Captain Peter Vincent.

“A flight is also planned to operate from Ashburton airport at midday on Tuesday 28th of November and subject to demand further flights may be operated from Ashburton and perhaps Timaru” said Captain Vincent.

The Dash 8 Airliner has a range of approximately 1200 nautical miles (2200km) and a cruise speed of 250 Knots (450km/hour) so the longer distance from Christchurch to the ice bergs is easily achieved.

Vincent Aviation is one of Australasia’s largest air charter operators with an all jet prop fleet consisting of one 40 passenger Dash 8, six 19 passenger Beechcraft 1900’s two 12 passenger Reims F406’s and one 9 passenger Cessna 441 Conquest operating from bases in Wellington and Darwin in Northern Australia.

Booking enquiries should be made to 0800 846 236 or email info[at]vincentair.co.nz.

ENDS

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