On Sunday, 17th September, 2023 the sky became the arena as Airways Aviation took flight in the highly anticipated inter-club flying competition. Airways Aviation’s Gold Coast Team soared into action, ready to face worthy opponents from Air Gold Coast and Murwillumbah Aero Club. Five of Airways’ most daring and skilled instructors; John Khalil, Te Maania Waruhai, Brooke Kavanagh, Howard Wei, and Dom McCarthy stepped up to represent the academy and make the same proud. The competition consisted of a series of challenges designed to test both knowledge and flying prowess. With a total score of 500 points up for grabs it was up to each pilot to collect their share of 100 points each!

Dressed in their red and white war paint, these guys had the energy, the passion and the enthusiasm to give it a red-hot crack.

Firstly, for 10 points, each pilot had to answer five theory questions to demonstrate their expertise in aviation.

With the theory out of the way, it was time to jump in VH-LSE and prove their navigation skills, maneuvering the aircraft within set tolerances with impeccable accuracy to earn 10 points.

For the bulk of the points, the pilots then had to complete three circuits and land as close as possible to a designated marker, with a whopping 25 points awarded for pinpoint precision.

The grand finale required the pilots to be confronted with a random trivia question, where quick thinking was worth more than their aviation knowledge.

The stakes were high, and the competition fierce, but the Airways Aviation team demonstrated exceptional skill and courage throughout the competition, making their presence known.

In the end, Instructor Howard soared to an exceptional second-place finish, while Instructor Te secured a commendable third place. Instructor Brooke’s moment of glory came when she brilliantly answered the trivia question: “What bones are babies born without?” Her response, “kneecaps!” earned her additional points and applause from the crowd.

A huge thank you goes out to the entire Airways team for their exceptional participation. Some of the students even joined the audience to witness the special event. Special thanks are due to Janet Dalby, the CEO, for providing the use of VH-LSE for the entire competition and to Andrew McIntosh, the HOO, for stepping in as a safety pilot.

Undoubtedly, the day was filled with fun and unforgettable moments, and that some aviation folklore will be written about this epic competition.

“Airways Aviation will be back next year, determined to claim the coveted shield! This event was not only a showcase of talent but also a testament to the spirit of aviation and the culture and environment we foster here at Airways Aviation. It was a fantastic day out, and we can’t wait to do it all over again,” said Janet Dalby, Chief Executive Officer Australasia and Pacific, at Airways Aviation.

Source: Janet Dalby (Airways Aviation)
Photo Credit: James Chang Lee (shown as meta image)