A very naked AIRPART 2, Cessna 182 currently sits dismantled in the workshop while the chief engineer Andrew Brumby conducts a mandatory national program to make sure the aircraft is safe for coast patrolling services throughout summer.

Aerial Patrol general manager Harry Mitchell said the service will hit the coastline throughout summer on the lookout for sharks close to beach shores, as well as vessels in distress and bush fires.

Mr Mitchell said the annual inspection of the Cessna 182 proved the aircraft was in good shape.

“The Aerial Patrol’s Cessna has operated over salt water at low altitude for its entire life; the aircraft has been well looked after with a thorough wash after every mission and hangared for almost 30 years,” he said.

“This Cessna is a 1976 model.

‘‘Most of the planes are relatively old so we need to pull them apart to make sure it complies with Cessna Supplemental Inspection Documents.

“Older piston engine aircraft, of which the average age is 40 years were built to the design, certification and maintenance standards applicable at the time. 

‘‘Many individual aircraft have now been operated well beyond the manufacturer’s original design assumptions and anticipated operational life.”

The inspection program will mean the launch of the summer Aerial Patrol could be delayed until November.