Airlines and airports are to use huge confetti cannons to celebrate historic aviation milestones after a European ban on water salutes came into effect overnight.
The much-loved traditional water salute, which sees airport firefighters proudly spraying aircraft with hoses to mark celebratory occasions, has led to mounting environmental concerns.
After much debate, European officials decided that confetti cannons would be the best alternative going forward, so long as airports and airlines use recycled materials and staff clean up any litter afterwards.
It is understood that brass bands and actors dressed up in animal costumes were also considered, but 60% of all eligible voters opted for confetti cannons.
In addition to new aircraft deliveries, water salutes are often used to mark the start of new airline routes and flight crew retirements.
“It was inconceivable that so much water was being wasted just so airlines can have a party. Confetti cannons are a much better option and align with our green credentials,” said European aviaton representative Daisy Faropoll.
However, the ban has caused outrage among some aviation enthusiasts who feel passionate about the time-honored tradition.
“It’s an abomination! What is wrong with an aircraft getting a good soak once in a while. It is political correctness gone mad,” said an unnamed aviation devotee on social media.
It is thought that the tradition of water salutes was first used to welcome large new vessels into ports and was subsequently adopted in the United States to celebrate a pilot’s retirement.
While we take the aviation industry seriously, we also believe in the importance of having a sense of humor. On April Fools’ Day, we thought it would be fun to share a lighthearted article that is not meant to be taken seriously. Please keep in mind that the information in this article is purely fictional and not based on any factual events. We hope it brings a smile to your face and provides a brief escape from the seriousness of everyday news and announcements in the industry.
11 comments
trouble is some numpty in a high position might read this and say hey thats a good idea…..
Thought this was strange. Confetti would be more of a litter issue and wreak havoc with the turbines. Think of the FOD issue and time afterward. Good joke.
I hate the first of April
First I was in shock to learn that confetti would be the chosen alternative. I mean, imagine the damage it would do on the engines alone! You can never clean up 100% of the confetti afterwards anyway.
But then I was relieved. I can’t believe I fell for that on those particular day 😳 😂
Wow, you had me going. I was in the industry for 40 years and although I was never so honored it was always fun to see one of our airplanes drive through the rainbow. You made me laugh…at the end, by that time I was seeing red. Years ago Flying magazine published an article called “The Gormley Bulsh Blofly, gone but not forgotten”. I took this in that fine tradition. Thanks for a laugh.
April fool prank …
You had me going for a moment there! Very clever😂😂😂
For about 5 to 10 seconds I thought this was real because European silliness never ceases to amaze me. A good April Fools joke needs to be based in some sort of reality… Good job!
Same, I already imagined some politicians actually thinking this policy will save the environment.
Fell for it. Hook, line, sinker, anchor, boat, all of it!. Could not believe what I was reading that a confetti salute was better than water. Never put it together with an AF joke. Nice job 🙂
This is the best… I really love it… I love the Deice with the Confetti… Having some experience in creating animations, that took some time for the Animators to create! Job well done