Flying in St Lucia
- Author:Alistair
- Posted: 4th August 2009
- Category: Travel
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In March 2009 I visited St Lucia. Before our holiday I spent some time trying to track down an outfit that hired aircraft on the island. Somewhat challenging initially but eventually I was put in contact with Mr Silvanus Ernest. Silvanus set up his own flying business on the island called General Aviation Services amd has a C172 available for hire that he has re-built.
There are two airports on the island, Hewanorra International airport to the South and George F L Charles airport to the North. General Aviation Services is based at the George F L Charles airport. We got a taxi there to meet Silvanus at the pre-arranged time (His hangar is on the south side of the airport which is opposite to the main terminal on the north so you will need to ensure your taxi driver takes you to the right side). Silvanus was a little late as he had been called off on a medical emergency to another island but landed back a few minutes after we arrived.
Whilst waiting we were looked after by Silvanus' wife who runs the office and is very helpful.
I decided my flight would be a clockwise circumnavigation of the island. Silvanus would be in P2 - he is an instructor and as well as needing the required check flight, I felt it important to have someone with local knowledge of the flying rules and air traffic controllers given this was my first flight on the island. My wife was photographer in the back.
George F L Charles airport is set amongst the backdrop of hills and the capital of St Lucia (Castries) and makes for a beautiful spot. Taking off on the north easterly runway, we headed at c1,500 feet to the north of the island where some of the largest and most expensive properties can be found. We then tracked south down the east coast of the island where the sea swell is noticably more significant due to the atlantic ocean. In order to get Hewanorra "in the book" I decided I would like to drop into the airfield at the south of the island. SIlvanus suggested a touch and go as then I wouldn't be charged a landing fee. Air traffic were very accommodating and following the touch an go we turned north west to head up the west coast passing the Pitons on the way. A few orbits around some of the beautiful bays on the way and returning to George F L Charles airport.
A fantastic trip and great experience.
Silvanus can be contacted by e-mail or phone:
genaviation@candw.lc
1 758 716 0904
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