In
April 2001 our two splendid Convair 440 aeroplanes were purchased
from an operator in Bolivia and flown by our crew over the Atlantic
Ocean to their new home in South Africa.
Built in
1954 the first owner was the US Airforce, which based them in
Texas until 1992. Then followed their 8-year tour of duty in Cochabamba
at 8 500ft on contract to the Bolivian airlines.
The restoration
of the air-conditioned aircraft to Rovos standards was achieved
in Pietersburg and proved easier than expected due to the exceptionally
good condition of the airframe. The aircraft have flown relatively
few hours during their 46-year life and as they were operated
in dry areas there was no corrosion damage to contend with.
The avionics were deemed to be out of date and were thus completely
upgraded to incorporate the most modern radar, moving map and
positioning systems available.
Fitted with the Pratt & Whitney 2800 radial engines the aircraft
has a pleasing power to weight ratio, providing the sort of performance
demanded by our well-qualified pilots. Pressurized to 23 000 ft
(above the bumps) the aircraft will cruise comfortably at 400km
per hour (220 knots) carrying 44 passengers in the comfort and
style expected of our product. The geared propellers, a massive
13ft 6ins in diameter, only spin at 1000 RPM helping to keep the
cabin noise at a very acceptable level.
Onboard service
by our capable staff will be of our usual high standard, complemented
by the facilities of an efficient and comprehensive galley.
The
aircraft will be used to convey our train passengers from Pietersburg
to Victoria Falls in Zambia on our scheduled Pretoria to Victoria
Falls journeys, and will also be available for charter anywhere
in Southern Africa.
In
April 2001 our two splendid Convair 440 aeroplanes were purchased
from an operator in Bolivia and flown by our crew over the Atlantic
Ocean to their new home in South Africa.
