A Gulf-stream II jet that made an emergency landing on Mallow racecourse in Ireland 40 years ago will be permanently displayed there in honor of the late pilot, Captain Ruben Ocana. His ashes will also be scattered on the track during a new festival named in his honor, “OcanaFest.” Hotel owner Kevin Owens, who is behind the festival, has tracked down the aircraft in Michigan and, pending the dismantling and re-assembly of the jet, aims to make it a tourist attraction. Cork County Council has provided sponsorship for the festival.

Mallow racecourse in County Cork, Ireland is set to become the permanent home of a Gulf-stream II jet after it landed there following an emergency in 1983. The pilot, Captain Ruben Ocana, became an overnight celebrity after the landing, which saved the lives of all on board following a three-minute planned landing. He spent six weeks in Mallow, and returned to the area several times with his family, until his death in 2009. Around 30 members of his family are expected to attend a new festival, OcanaFest, taking place on 21 and 22 April and to scatter his ashes at the racecourse. Festival highlights will include horse racing, an aerobatic show, drone displays, workshops, musical performances and culinary treats in the town. Cork County Council is among the sponsors of the event.