Current Projects
Help Us Bring JHF and
WKU into WASSI Colours
You may have noticed that two of our aircraft — Piper PA-38 Tomahawk JHF and Cessna 172 WKU — are yet to be finished in our distinctive WASSI paint scheme. Repainting an aircraft is a significant investment, costing approximately $50,000 per aircraft.
Each time WASSI purchases a new aircraft, we aim to repaint it in our recognisable colours as funding allows. Depending on the condition of the paintwork at the time of purchase, some aircraft require more extensive preparation than others.
Our bold, distinctive paint scheme is more than just branding. High-visibility colours enhance safety in the sky and ensure our aircraft are instantly recognisable as part of the WASSI fleet.
WASSI is currently seeking donations to help complete the repainting of JHF and WKU, and we warmly welcome support from those who would like to see these aircraft proudly wearing WASSI colours. Please get in touch with us via our Contact Us page.
Enhancing Safety:
Sponsor an Electronic CO Monitor
Traditionally, light aircraft are fitted with a simple carbon monoxide detector card. At the centre of the card is a small orange circle that darkens to brown or black when exposed to carbon monoxide. Pilots check this indicator regularly to ensure no exhaust gases have entered the cockpit — as the effects of carbon monoxide poisoning in flight can be particularly dangerous. All WASSI aircraft are currently equipped with these cards.
As part of our ongoing commitment to safety and modernisation, we are aiming to upgrade our fleet with electronic carbon monoxide detectors. Unlike indicator cards, these units actively measure carbon monoxide levels in the cockpit and can provide an audible warning if safe exposure limits are exceeded — offering earlier detection and an added layer of protection for our students and instructors.
Each detector costs approximately $500. Through our “Sponsor a Detector” project, we hope to purchase 17 AV8 Inspector Pro carbon monoxide detectors — equipping our current fleet, other aircraft we source for The Walsh and future-proofing for aircraft we may add to the fleet in the years ahead.
If you would like to support this important safety initiative, please get in touch via our Contact Us page.
Completed Projects
Investing in Clear Communication: David Clark Headsets for Walsh Students
In 2025, WASSI launched an appeal to fund the purchase of 20 David Clark Company headsets for students attending the Walsh Memorial Scout Flying School. With generous support from several organisations, and a public call to “Sponsor a Headset” shared with Walsh staff, supporters, and across New Zealand aviation publications, the response was outstanding.
As a result, WASSI was able to secure all 20 headsets for use at the 2026 School and for many years to come. Each headset has been engraved with the name of its supporting organisation or individual, creating a lasting tribute to their generosity and a visible reminder to future generations of Walshies of the community behind them.
The project was designed to enhance communication in a busy flight training environment, supporting both safety and learning outcomes. Feedback from instructors and staff at the 2026 School has been overwhelmingly positive.
