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Oxford, 7 December 2003 – In celebration of 100 years of powered flight, Oxford Airport hosted a visit by one of the UK’s most efficient light aircraft undertaking a round Britain flight during the day.
The aircraft, a converted Cessna 172 registered G-ECON and one of the world’s most popular light aircraft models, was fitted with the first generation of new diesel engines derived from a Mercedes automotive powerplant. The first to be certified with a diesel engine in the United Kingdom, the day’s flight around the UK used just 72 litres of diesel fuel rather than the 124 litres of much more costly aviation gasoline that would have been needed by the original engine. The technology also allows for a noticeably quieter and more emissions friendly aircraft.
Councillor Maureen Hastings, Chair of Cherwell District Council was presented with a signed photograph of the aircraft to celebrate the anniversary of the world’s first powered manned flight at Kitty Hawk in 1903 and the visit by the first aircraft in the UK to have this new generation technology.
The aircraft was owned and converted by Meridian Aviation limited to use the German manufactured Theilert Centurion engine.
For further information contact:
Oxford Airport
James Dillon-Godfray - Head of Marketing & Development
Tel: 01865 290 710, Fax: 01865 290 605,
E-mail: jdg@oxfordairport.co.uk
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