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Sunday, November 19, 1972
The aircraft is used in storm reconnaissance by flying near or into
the weaker tropical cyclones threatening Hong Kong to obtain useful information.
The first experiment was made with tropical storm "Susan" in July this year.
Together with the British armed forces, it also carries out a post-
typhoon reconnaissance service which is designed to pin-point areas in need
of help.
Equipped with a sophisticated aerial survey camera, the Islander
can undertake aerial photography and surveying of Hong Kong's landscape,
thereby enabling up-to-date mapping of the region.
At present, the force consists of about 40 full-time civil servants
responsible for the day-to-day running of the force, including the daily
flying for government departments, maintenance and administration.
The staff includes three personnel seconded from the R.A.F. They
are responsible for maintaining standards of servicing and flying. In
addition there are more than 100 volunteers, who represent a wide cross-section
of the community.
"The local team of auxiliary officers and members forming the force
is vital not only because they offer an economical pool of experienced pilots
on call but because they have a unique understanding of both the environment
and local conditions," said the Commanding Officer of the force, Wing Commander
Simon Ellis,
Release time: 3.00 p.m.