83-0500 'Catbird' visits Cork & Shannon

US Navy Gulfstream C-20A serial 83-0500 (msn 382) visited Cork and Shannon yesterday. The aircraft which uses callsign 'Catbird' spent a short time on the ground in Cork before departing for Shannon where it overnighted.

83-0500 is operated by the ETD (Executive Transport Department) at NAS Sigonella in Sicilly which is tasked with providing logistical support for the Commander, 6th Fleet and NATO forces in the Mediterranean. In April 2004 the previous incumbent of the 'Catbird' callsign, VP-3A BuNo 150496 was retired from service and replaced by 83-0500 which has continued to wear it's USAF serial in it's current role.

Pictured below in the copyright picture by Paul Daly, 83-0500 is seen on finals to Cork. Note the 'Catbird' decal behind the passenger door.

Recent visitors

An interesting visitor to Shannon today was US Navy C37 serial 166376 msn 5041. The aircraft has visited Shannon several times in recent weeks but this was the first time to visit in daylight. Pictured above 'Navy 100' flares for touchdown on R24. 

The second interesting visitor today was an ex Sterling B737-5L9 msn 24778. While with Sterling the aircraft was registered OY-MAA but is now registered N494ST to Orix Aircraft. It's routing today was Aalborg - Shannon - Bangor - Goodyear. Seen in the picture above N494ST commences take off roll on R24.