Français
A strange bird landed on the runway at Saint-Barthélemy airport on the morning of Wednesday March 12. An aircraft from another era, as if it had been flying since the 1930s until it finally landed in Saint-Barth. The aircraft is a Beechcraft model D18S. "A very special guest for the Bucket," enthuses airport manager Fabrice Danet. After all, it was during the Saint-Barth Bucket Regatta that this vintage aircraft arrived.
The Beech dates back to the interwar period in the 20th century. The Model 18 made its first flights in 1939. It was designed in the USA, and the last "examples" left the factory in 1969. The Beech 18 could reach a maximum speed of 386 km/h. Its landing speed is 105 km/h or less, it can fly level at 460 meters on a single engine, and clear a 15-meter obstacle on take-off in less than 460 meters (perfect for the runway at Saint-Barth). Capable of carrying two pilots and six passengers.
The aircraft belongs to Eric Zipkin, owner of the tradewind company. He will be in Saint-Barthélemy from March 12 to 22, and is expected to make regular flights throughout his stay, particularly around the Bucket. It's not impossible that "discovery" flights to take on board children or aviation-loving passengers will be organized.
"It's a very fine aircraft, which will add a little more prestige to the platform and to Saint-Barthélemy", says Fabrice Danet with satisfaction. There's no doubt that, over the next few days, curious onlookers will flock to the barriers overhanging the aircraft parking areas to catch a glimpse of the beautiful bird.
