25 aircraft land for Malta rally

The 39th edition of the International Air Rally of Malta was launched yesterday at the Malta International Airport as most of the 80 participants arrived on 25 aircraft.

Air Rally chairman Captain George Kissaun said all the aircraft had come in smoothly and on time, apart from one which experienced propeller problems over Ragusa but flew in later in the afternoon.

More participants are expected to fly in today.

The competition started yesterday and will run till Wednesday.

Pilots will be tested for their precision flying by being required to keep strictly to their designated arrival time over the Ġordan lighthouse in Gozo.

They will also be tested for their navigation skills through a flight planning competition.

Marks will also be given for the upkeep and safety of their aircraft and a spot landing competition at Luqa.

This year will see the 2,980th participant in the Air Rally since 1969. So far, 1,094 light aircraft from 25 countries have taken part in this annual event.