Top female pilot to take to the skies at Clacton Airshow
"Participating in the Clacton Airshow represents an extraordinary opportunity to be part of a revolution in aeronautical event presentation," she said."Clacton's seafront offers a magnificent setting for aerial demonstrations, and I'm enthusiastic about contributing to this pioneering event."
Ms Astles was born in Rugby, Warwickshire, but moved to France when she was three years old.She worked in petrol stations after leaving school at the age of 18 to fund her flying lessons, and earned her private pilot's licence by the time she was 21.She will take to the skies in her Extra 330SC, a high-performance, single-seat aerobatic aircraft powered by a Lycoming AEIO-580 engine.
The Clacton Airshow is an annual event organised by Tendring District Council.Councillor Ivan Henderson, deputy leader of the district council and cabinet member for economic growth, regeneration and tourism, said he was enthused by the airshow's newest addition."Mélanie Astles is an exceptional pilot whose skill and passion for aviation have earned her international acclaim," he said."From championship titles to breaking barriers in the Red Bull Air Race, her achievements speak for themselves."We're absolutely delighted to welcome her to Clacton for what promises to be a truly unforgettable debut."
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