FIGAS: Is this the world's most unusual airline?

Chris Smith speaks with Troyd Bowles, chief pilot at the Falkland Islands Government Air Service (FIGAS), to learn more about the operation of one of the world’s most unusual airlines.

There are few places where aircraft are just as essential as the automobile, but the Falkland Islands is certainly one of them.   This tiny archipelago is strewn over an area spanning only 160 miles by 90 miles, with most of its 778 islands remaining uninhabited. As a British Overseas Territory – which makes them quintessentially British – there is also a freedom of self-governance, which is enacted by the local legislative assembly. Situated roughly 300 miles east from the South American coastline, the climate can be punishing. Unrelenting winds can churn up layers of thick cloud, engulfing the relatively flat and mostly barren landscape.

Become a Premium Member to Read More

This is a premium article and requires an active Key.Aero subscription to view.

I’m an existing member, sign me in!

I don’t have a subscription…

Enjoy the following subscriber only benefits:

  • Unlimited access to all KeyAero content
  • Exclusive in-depth articles and analysis, videos, quizzes added daily
  • A fully searchable archive – boasting hundreds of thousands of pieces of quality aviation content
  • Access to read all our leading aviation magazines online - meaning you can enjoy the likes of FlyPast, Aeroplane Monthly, AirForces Monthly, Combat Aircraft, Aviation News, Airports of the World, PC Pilot and Airliner World - as soon as they leave the editor’s desk.
  • Access on any device- anywhere, anytime
  • Choose from our offers below