In a unique display, a private aircraft, an Aeroprakt A23 Vixxen with the registration G-LWPP, has drawn the shape of a woman’s body over Scotland.

Unlike traditional skywriting with smoke, this effort was created using the aircraft’s flight path as recorded by GPS.

The Aeroprakt A32 Vixxen, a light sport aircraft known for its agility, took to the skies and followed an evidently meticulously planned route that, when viewed on flight tracking software, reveals the outline of a woman’s body.

This aerial artwork is part of a growing trend of using GPS technology to create large-scale images from a bird’ s-eye or rather a satellite-eye view. Unlike traditional skywriting, which is temporary and dependent on weather conditions, GPS drawings provide a permanent record of the flight path.

A professional pilot, who wished to remain anonymous, told me: “While this kind of stunt might generate a few laughs and showcase a bit of creativity, it’s not what I would consider professional aviation conduct. However, as long as it’s done safely and within regulations, it’s ultimately harmless.”

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UK Government Explores Legalising Skytyping and Skywriting

The UK Government is considering legalising skytyping and skywriting as forms of aerial advertising. This proposal is part of the government’s broader strategy to reduce regulatory burdens on general aviation.

Skytyping involves multiple aeroplanes emitting smoke to create text in the sky, while skywriting uses a single aeroplane to draw symbols or letters. Currently, these activities are banned under the Civil Aviation (aerial advertising) regulations 1995, but the government believes modern safety standards and international practices justify a change.

The consultation document highlights potential economic benefits from legalising these activities, including job creation and increased commercial opportunities for advertisers. The UK already boasts skilled skytyping pilots who work abroad and could bring their expertise back home.

The proposed change could also encourage new businesses to enter the market, boosting related industries such as aircraft maintenance and fuel supply.

Safety considerations are a key part of the consultation. The government asserts that modern technology and regulations can mitigate potential risks. For instance, skytyping is coordinated electronically by non-flying crew members, and operations in controlled airspace would require coordination with air navigation service providers. The consultation also addresses potential concerns about emissions and noise, stating that the environmental impact of these activities would be minimal.

George Allison
George has a degree in Cyber Security from Glasgow Caledonian University and has a keen interest in naval and cyber security matters and has appeared on national radio and television to discuss current events. George is on Twitter at @geoallison

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