Skydive Lake Wanaka purchases new aircraft

Skydive Lake Wanaka has purchased a $2 million purpose-built Cresco Xstol aeroplane that will help increase passenger capacity.

The larger interior of the aircraft will double the current passenger capacity and the Pratt and Whitney 750 horse powered turbine engine will lower noise levels.

The aircraft features more comfortable seating and larger windows for jumpers to capture Wanaka’s spectacular mountain and lake views on their way to altitude.

“The purchase of the new plane follows 15 years of reinvestment in to the business. We are constantly striving to enhance our customers’ experience as well as undertake steps to be environmentally responsible operators,” said Skydive Lake Wanaka owner Jools Hall.

The Cresco Xstol is the next model up from the Cresco aircraft, currently used by Skydive Lake Wanaka. It is expected to be delivered in November 2010.

The company has achieved Tourism New Zealand’s Qualmark Green rating for environmentally responsible tourism attaining an Enviro-Silver ranking this year.

Last year, Skydive Lake Wanaka was presented with New Zealand Tourism Award for the best small operator in New Zealand.