Hong Kong Aviation Club forced to pull out of Kai Tak base
Body that trains city's private pilots slams official 'stonewalling' over alternative base
The only organisation offering training to private pilots in the city was forced to close down its flying operation at the historic Kai Tak site yesterday.
The Hong Kong Aviation Club, which has used the old airport site since 1998, expressed frustration at the decision and accused the government of neglecting its demand for relocation.
Gigi Chao, president of the Hong Kong Aviation Club and daughter of real estate tycoon Cecil Chao, told the : "We are at a loss as to what the government expects us to do."
She said the club received direction effective from yesterday to restrict flights of single engine helicopters out of Kai Tak.
The non-profit club is the only body that trains members to fly fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters to obtain the essential Private Pilot Licence, recognised by the International Civil Aviation Organisation. The licence allows pilots to fly solo or with passengers.
To obtain the licence, the trainee has to have flown a minimum 40 hours, at least 10 solo. More than 1,500 private pilot licence-holders have trained out of the facility, including flying instructors and test examiners.
