35 aircraft in 33rd Malta rally

Eight countries, including Malta, are represented in this year's International Air Rally of Malta, which started yesterday.

Some 35 light aircraft with 90 participants started arriving yesterday at about 11.30 a.m., with aircraft landing every ten minutes up to 5.30 p.m.

Apart from 16 entries from the UK there are two aircraft from the Vienna Aero Club, eight aircraft from Germany, five from France, Greece with two and one each from Luxemburg and Belgium.

According to the local organisers, Malta International Airport has again put their excellent facilities at the disposal of the committee. Facilities at Building 397 and Park 4 have been well prepared by the manager, Aviation Services, and other important branches in the link.

The newly set up Malta Air Traffic Services will be providing yet another high quality service, and accepted a larger number of incoming aircraft during the morning and afternoon both yesterday and today.

The final aircraft are expected to touch down at noon today. Pilots will be tested for their precision flying and navigation through a Flight Planning Competition. The aircraft will be scrutinised by experienced concours d'elegance judges and marks will also be given for the upkeep and safety of the aircraft.

Another competition is the Elapse Time Flying Competition, timing them between the Gozo NDB and the Luqa Tower. On arrival at Park 4 they will be put through a further test of the Spot Landing Competition.

The winners will be announced on Tuesday at the prize-giving ceremony at the Corinthia San Gorg Hotel, St Julian's. Rallyists leave Malta on Wednesday morning.