aircraft flights — Extended aircraft flights over Larnaca have sparked significant local concern as a specialised research aircraft engages in seabed mapping around the city’s port and airport. Cypriot officials confirmed on Thursday that this operation has been taking place for the past two days.
Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com
- The extended flight patterns have not gone unnoticed by local residents, many of whom are expressing concerns about potential safety issues tied to the aircraft's prolonged presence in the area.
- The firm maintains a fleet of specialised aircraft and employs crews experienced in operating under extreme conditions, such as snow and ice, and in remote areas, according to company information.
Aircraft flights: Mapping Operations Underway
The aircraft conducting these flights is a Basler BT-67, operated by the Canadian company Kenn Borek Air. Reports indicate that the aircraft completed flights lasting 3.5 hours on Wednesday and over 4 hours on Thursday, as shown by radar images obtained by Philenews.
Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com
Community Reactions
The extended flight patterns have not gone unnoticed by local residents, many of whom are expressing concerns about potential safety issues tied to the aircraft’s prolonged presence in the area.
Purpose of the Flights
According to an official source, the aircraft is performing seabed mapping of Larnaca port for research purposes. The official noted that similar flights may continue in the coming days as part of the ongoing research operation.
About the Basler BT-67
The Basler BT-67 is a modified turboprop version of the iconic DC-3, designed specifically for specialised missions such as aerial surveys and mapping operations. This aircraft type is well-regarded for its capabilities in conducting extensive research missions.
Kenn Borek Air’s Expertise
Kenn Borek Air, based in Calgary, Alberta, is known for its charter operations in challenging and remote environments. The company offers passenger and cargo flights worldwide and has developed a reputation for undertaking operations in the Arctic and Antarctic regions. Their missions often focus on scientific research, ice studies, and even rescue operations.
The firm maintains a fleet of specialised aircraft and employs crews experienced in operating under extreme conditions, such as snow and ice, and in remote areas, according to company information.
