ExecuJet Africa has become the first operator to land a jet at St Helena airport in the southern Atlantic Ocean. The flight, which took place last month, was part of the airport's certification process. The company flew regulatory personnel from the aircraft's base in Johannesburg to St Helena on a Challenger 300.

Five Air Safety Support International representatives were among those who conducted an on-site audit of St Helena airport, led by senior aerodrome inspector Justin Rothwell. The CL300 also carried out several audit flights during the visit to ensure the smooth and safe running of ATC and other safety aspects at the airport.

Security and assistant safety officer at ExecuJet Africa Dries Human says: “We are delighted to be an integral part of the certification process at St Helena airport, making aviation history as the first ever jet to land there.

“The flight was the culmination of six weeks of meticulous planning and coordination between Basil Read, the construction company, Lanseria airport in Johannesburg, the UK regulating bodies and St Helena's Governor's office to ensure everything was in place for the five-day audit event.”

Lanseria Airport, which is ExecuJet's South African base, will continue its partnership with St Helena Airport for a further 10 years, managing its airport operations and airspace, as well as providing reliable air services to the island. The scheme is part of the UK Government's commitment to maintaining access to St Helena and increasing tourism.