Press release -

Highflyers head for Alderney's 25th Annual Fly-In Weekend 23-25 June

Alderney, Channel Islands – 27April 2017: During the weekend of 23-25 June, the skies above Alderney are expected to buzz with flocks of small aircraft, as the third largest Channel Island will be hosting its 25th annual Alderney Fly-In weekend.

Based on previous years, in excess of 50 private aircraft are expected to bring over 100 people from the UK and the Continent to this popular annual gathering and early accommodation booking is strongly recommended. Although the vast majority of planes usually come from England, several are expected from as far afield as Switzerland, Holland, Belgium and France. Many of the pilots have become regular visitors to Alderney.

“As every year, we look forward to a few unusual or vintage aircraft landing in Alderney”, said David Chiswell, organizer of this annual aviation event. “In the last two years the undisputed showstopper was a 1943 US Navy Boeing Stearman bi-plane, alongside modern and relatively affordable microlights and flexwing ultralights (for the adventurous pilot), as well as home-built planes. And, as this is our 25th anniversary, there could be a few more showstoppers on their way to Alderney.

To attract these intrepid aviators to the Alderney Fly-In, there will be no registration fee and landing fees will include 72 hours of free parking. Free transport to their accommodation is sponsored by the Alderney Chamber of Commerce.

Other incentives of particular appeal to private pilots are VAT- and tax-free AvGas, as well as VAT- and duty-free shopping.

Versatile entertainment programme

For the aviators and their guests, a varied programme of social and cultural events has been laid on by the Fly-In organising team David Chiswell, Ilona Soane-Sands, Al Paton and Roberta Sargent in conjunction with the Alderney Wildlife Trust, Visit Alderney and other local organisations .

The social programme takes off with a flying start: welcome drinks reception and a dinner with live music at Bumps on Friday night 23 June and numerous cultural, social and sporting activities on offer across three days. But the highlight of the weekend will be the Gala and Prize-Giving Dinner with live music at the Braye Beach Hotel. And there could be a few surprises…

For those keen to explore the nature and history trails there will be boat trips to see the spectacular sea birds around Alderney, a visit to the highly acclaimed bird observatory and guided tours exploring the Nunnery - Britain’s best preserved small Roman fort, while sports enthusiasts can opt for a round of golf, clay-pigeon shooting, horse-riding, and running and ….bell-ringing!

This year’s Alderney Fly-In will again be sponsored by Guernsey company ASG (Aircraft Servicing Guernsey). ASG provides a one-stop shop for all aviation needs - all VAT-free.

All is set for a great weekend and, naturally, the Fly-In organisers and participants are expecting clear skies as far as the weather is concerned. ENDS

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  • England

Just a stone’s throw from the south coast of England lies the treasured island of Alderney. A hidden gem with beautiful beaches, rich heritage, wildlife and scenery waiting to be discovered. Kick back and relax to enjoy the slower pace of life or get out to explore and take in the fresh sea air. However you choose to spend your time in Alderney you’ll soon realise just how easy it is to fall in love with this small island.

Alderney is the closest of all the Channel Islands to the UK, it is in easy reach. The island is just 3½ miles by 1½ miles at its widest point, one of the best ways of seeing this small island is on foot. Alderney boasts over 50 miles of winding lines and country paths covering every part of the island from the main town through to the commons and rugged coastline. On your walks around the island you’ll find fascinating historical sites, including Roman, Napoleonic and German architecture and in some cases all to be found on one site. A visit to the award winning museum is a must to find out more and the many layers of history on Alderney.

The peaceful island provides a perfect environment for stunning wildlife, from huge seabird colonies to hundreds of different wildflowers and moths, some special mammals, and incredible marine habitats. The lanes are exceptionally quiet, with very little traffic beyond the town, and the highest speed limit just 35mph. After night fall take in the clear night sky and enjoy the benefits of no light pollution and Alderney’s unspoilt natural environment.

Add in welcoming hotels, guesthouses and restaurants and you see why Alderney is the Channel Island’s hidden gem, worth going the extra mile to visit. 

Contacts

David Chiswell

Chairman Alderney Flying Club Chairman Alderney Flying Club +44 (0)7711 142858

Ilona Soane-Sands

Photographic material for the Alderney Flying Club +44 (0)1481 823448

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