Aviation project lands in Dumfries

AN aviation project born out of the ashes of World War II celebrated its 80th anniversary in Dumfries on Sunday.

The Mission Aviation Fellowship sought to use aviation as a force for good instead of destruction. Inspired by their Christian faith, its founders decided to use their wartime flying and engineering skills to deliver help, hope and healing to the world’s most isolated people.

Eighty years on, their work is supported by many churches, including Dumfries Baptist Church.

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TAKING FLIGHT. . .Libby using MAFÕs flight simulator.[/caption]

On Sunday a plane was sat in the church centre car park, brought from Glasgow by MAF’s James Petticrew, who took part in the morning service. Through short talks and videos, he described how MAF now flies light aircraft in 25 countries, serving more places than any other airline in the world. Working in partnership with over 2000 organisations, MAF can survey damage from the air within hours of a disaster, then deliver supplies and skilled workers, or evacuate aid workers from conflict zones, supplying food and healthcare.

During a bring and share lunch, many of the children - and adults - tried using a flight simulator to get a feel for what it’s like to be a MAF pilot, landing on desert and jungle airstrips, roads and lakes, wherever remote communities need practical or spiritual help.