IPMS South Africa - Boeing 707-328c No 1419 Final Flight

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Boeing 707-328c No 1419 Final Flight

Written by Anton Dyason - IPMS SA Media Group

Saturday, 03 November 2007

Page 4 of 5

Following the initial fly-past no 1419 performed another fly-past before positioning for the “go-around” demonstration which saw the aircraft climb to altitude in a beautiful nose high attitude while the pilot cleaned up the aircraft. This was followed by a smooth landing as a testament to the highly capable crews of 60 Sqdn. While the aircraft slowed down with all spoilers etc in the extended position the harsh reality started to settle in that this was the end of the line for 1419. The aircraft came to a stand still in the vicinity of the awaiting crowd.

Touch down at its new home

Following the shut-down procedure the crew formed up for the salute. To acknowledge the salute was the honour of the current CAF (Chief of the Air Force), Lt. Gen. Carlo Gagiano. A toast to the individual aircraft, the aircraft and the Sqdn followed. In his address Lt. Gen. Carlo Gagiano thanked the men and woman of 60 Sqdn who went beyond the call of duty to keep these aircraft on Sqdn strength for such an extended period of time. He pointed out although a sad day to see such an effective aircraft retired the positive spin-off is the SAAF museum receiving a new exhibit to be preserved for future generations.