Buvu Island is one of many in the Ssese Islands on Lake Victoria and is presently only reachable by boat – a trip that takes several hours – one which leaves many of the locals frightened of drowning.
Before an airstrip can be built there must be extensive surveys done to ensure that the soil is level, compact, and can support the weight of the aircraft. There must also be adequate space for the strip to be placed on the island without being too close to the homes.
The survey on Buvu Island was carried out by Engineering Ministries International, two MAF pilots and Operations Manager, Adrian Went.
Adrian reports: “The airfield surface tester indicated the ground could support the weight of the aircraft, although there is concern about the ability of the sub-soil to support the landings and parked aircraft. Soil samples have been taken back for testing by the CAA and we have to await the results.”
MAF and the people of Buvu await the results of the soil test, together looking forward to the benefits MAF flights could offer this isolated community.