A Catalina flying boat, P40 Kittyhawk and Chinese Nanchang training aeroplane are taking to the skies around Wellington.

The three aircraft are among a range of aeroplanes on display at the Wellington Aero Club’s 80th Anniversary Open Day on Saturday 27 March, at Wellington Airport.

The club’s Captain, Josie Leckie, says the open day gives the public a chance to see a variety of aircraft up close and experience trial flights in training aeroplanes and helicopters.

“The day enables people to get up close to aeroplanes and talk with pilots about flying into and out of Wellington.”

The aero club has operated at Wellington Airport for the past 80 years, offering pilot training 10 minutes from Wellington’s CBD. “Wellington Airport’s a fantastic place to learn to fly,” Ms Leckie says. “No day’s the same and you’re flying among commercial turboprops and jets – it’s a great experience.”

Together with the warbirds, aircraft including an Air New Zealand 737, the LifeFlight Air Ambulance and helicopter, and the Southern DC3 will be on display, with the club’s aeroplanes completing the lineup.

Wellington Aero Club Open Day: 10am – 4pm, Saturday 27 March, 246 Coutts St, Wellington. Gold coin entry.

ENDS