Aviodrome gets iconic historic passenger plane from South Africa

Aviodrome is preparing for the arrival of a very special aircraft for the Netherlands, the Convair 340. The aircraft, built in 1954, was donated to Aviodrome by its South African owner, Rovos Rail. After the necessary technical work, the Convair will fly across Africa and Europe to its new home Aviodrome at Lelystad Airport this summer. The costs of €350,000 for preparing the aircraft, purchasing various spare parts and the exciting crossing, will be covered by Aviodrome. The arrival of the Convair is a very welcome addition to Aviodrome's collection of flying aircraft, as this iconic aircraft typifies the rise of (mass) tourism.

Convenience and comfort for the passenger

After World War II, the need arose for aircraft that could carry more passengers over longer distances and with greater comfort. This comfort was realized, among other things, by the pressurized cabin, which made it possible to fly over bad weather, for example. This allowed passengers to fly comfortably to their destinations. KLM had a total of 24 of this type in service from 1948. Because of this great success, Martin's Air Charter, founded in 1958, took over an aircraft and later added another similar aircraft to its fleet.

Use for luxury Air Safaris

South Africa's Rovos Rail offered luxury "air safaris" in a Convair across southern Africa through 2009. They did this in combination with organized train tours. Due to various circumstances, the aircraft became obsolete for Rovos Rail and was up for sale. In March 2018, it became clear that the owner wanted to give the Convair a good future, so he decided to donate the Convair to Aviodrome. In the coming weeks, the last parts will be ordered, the aircraft will be technically prepared and various preparations for the crossing will take place. The Convair will soon be on display to Aviodrome visitors as part of the collection. It will regularly start its engines for maintenance and take to the air on special occasions during the flying season.

From Africa to Aviodrome

Around July 12, 2018, the aircraft will start its flight from South Africa. Since the Convair is suitable for mainly short and medium distances, it will make several stopovers on its way to the Netherlands. The route will take it from South Africa via Zambia, Uganda, Sudan, Egypt, Croatia and Austria, among others, to Lelystad. An experienced crew will fly the aircraft.

Follow the Convair

Through live updates and video reports, everyone will soon be able to follow the extraordinary and challenging flight via this page and through all Aviodrome social media channels. During the summer vacations, the plane will be festively welcomed at Aviodrome.

Volg hier de reis van de Convair

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