IT ONCE flew between the Channel Islands, UK and Europe – but now sits quietly in a secure area near the air traffic control tower…
The future of a former Jersey Airlines plane that was brought back to the Island by a group of local enthusiasts in 2018 could involve a charity or not-for-profit organisation, according to its owner.
Matt Palmer has been looking after the De Havilland Heron since 2021, having purchased it for £1 when the company that owned it went into liquidation.
Mr Palmer has been searching for a suitable long-term strategy to ensure the ‘Duchess of Brittany’, which first took off in the 1950s, can stay in the Island.
His hope is that the “truly unique” aircraft might in future be used as a static educational exhibit and visitor attraction.
Mr Palmer said he was now working with a “small team” to establish a not-for-profit organisation or charity to take over ownership of the Heron.
“That can then be used to access funding and develop plans for a sustainable future for her,” he explained.
“When I took the aircraft on, it was always as a community heritage project,” Mr Palmer said.
“At the same time, I recognise that we need to have the right structure,” he added.
Source: https://jerseyeveningpost.com/
