Concorde could return to the air as early as 18 January as the UK and French manufacturers, along with Air France and British Airways, prepare for a series of ground tests to be undertaken at the Istres flight test centre in southern France. Air France is scheduled to reveal the details of the planned modification and testing programme the previous day and, subject to approval, an Air France aircraft will depart to Istres 24 hours later (Friday).

Source: Flight International