17:20 hrs Tuesday August 26 ZK-TDT Arion Lightning took to the air for
it's first of type inaugural flight in New Zealand. Test Pilot Roger
Cruickshank took off from Hamilton International Airport with a dozen
interested aircraft enthusiasts present and flew a few medium and steep
turns, stalls and several circuits of the aerodrome as well as a pulsating
low level flyby for the cheering onlookers. The 'Wow" factor was evident
with all. On Roger's return he opened the canopy with a big smile on his
face, shook my hand and said "I am predicting we will see a lot more of
these aircraft in New Zealand."
A big thank you to Nick, Mark,Mike and all at Arion Aircraft for their
assistance to date as well as all of you on the chat site with your
continued inspiration and support.
>From Down Under
Ron Ritchie
