Tag Archives: Aviation Central
Children’s Flight 2023
“Fly, Feed, Love, Inspire,”
Orient Airfield, on September 1, 2023, hosted another very successful 8th edition Children’s Flight. Magaliesburg Gliding Club is located at Orient’s airport. Steve and Andreas were hosts, and the organizers, Felix and Belinda Gosher, once again did a fantastic job of giving 500 underprivileged children a day they will never forget. Gosher started The Children’s Flight in South Africa back in 2016, and this has since been extended to Zambia. Since the first Children’s Flight in 2016, an estimated 4000+ kids have been flown.
Once the flying, or flipping, started, it all went non-stop. Just under twenty fixed-wing aircraft were doing circuits around the airspace and queuing to welcome the next kids onboard. A number of helicopters also flipped a large number of kids, including Menno Parsons and his Tiger Huey. In total, 109 aircraft flew into Orient Airfield. Two American-registered aircraft based in Sa also did flipping.
The ever-growing list of sponsors contributed to the event, with just over 100 sponsors this year. The sponsors included but were not limited to, food, drink, toys, and other goodie bags. Entertainment consisted of face painting, clowns, jumping castles, and playgrounds.
With the busy skies and many takeoffs and landings, air traffic control and the team up in the temporary contracted tower had their hands full and did an excellent job. At one stage, more than 15 aircraft were waiting in line for their chance to get airborne. I don’t think the kids minded the wait or getting a few more minutes on an airplane.
A mini-airshow was part of the day, with some top displays. The kids were treated to flying displays by the RV Raptors, Menno Parsons and his Tiger, Mennos’ L39 Jet flown to perfection by Mike Weingartz, the Good Year Eagles, Andrê van Zyl in his Gyrocopter, Nashua Extra 300, flown by Champion Andrew Blackwood-Murray, Juba in his favorite toy, Gazelle, the Raptors aerobatic team, and lastly, Two Ship Extras piloted by Nigel and Jason.
The South African Air Force sent a Hawk fighter jet from Makhado AFB. The Hawk, painted in the South African Flag paint scheme, was a huge hit with all attending. SAAF CASA 212 was on static display for the day. The CASA was also used to fly in some top SAAF generals. Let’s hope they take a word of good faith home and send a bigger list of Aircarft in the 2024 edition of the Children’s Flight. Maybe even do some flipping.
Sound Was provided by Brian Emmenis and his Capital Sounds Team, simply world-class commentating done in a perfect way to entertain and inform the kids. The local radio station in South Africa, HOT 102.7 FM, provided live commentary on the day, with Steve Bishop managing the broadcasting station and Tara Penny on the ground.
We certainly look forward to the 2024 edition of the Children’s Flight and are hoping and praying for more sponsorship to make the day bigger and better for our kids.
Airlink unveils its hot little black number!
12 JULY 2023, Johannesburg – Airlink, Southern Africa’s independent and privately owned regional airline, unveiled a distinctive special-liveried new addition to its fleet today.
The newly acquired Embraer E195 jetliner, which now sports a classy jet-black paint scheme, debuted on a test flight at O.R. Tambo International Airport this morning and will soon operate on Airlink’s main domestic and regional trunk services.
“Some say flying has lost its allure, but as Southern Africa’s premier airline, Airlink is putting glamour and style back in the skies. In addition to our top-class service provided by our friendly crew in their stylish new uniforms, we have dressed one of our svelte Embraer E-Jets in an elegant and chic little black number,” said Airlink CEO and Managing Director Rodger Foster.
The aircraft promotes Airlink’s recently launched Skybucks customer loyalty programme.
“Skybucks is a key component in establishing and consolidating Airlink as an independent, efficient and dependable airline, travel partner and brand. Black is the pinnacle Skybucks tier and a cachet reserved exclusively for the select group of our most loyal high-flyers. On the other hand, our graceful black E-jet will surprise and catch eyes wherever she flies!” explained Mr Foster.
About Airlink
Airlink was established in 1992 and is Southern Africa’s premier privately-owned regional airline. Airlink serves these cities and other destinations throughout Southern Africa, Madagascar, and St Helena Island. It offers worldwide connections through its more than 20 interline and four codeshare partners with many trusted and well-known inter-continental brands and its FlyNamibia franchise.
Airlink has consistently been South Africa’s most on-time airline over the last two years*, with its fleet of more than 60 modern jetliners achieving a 94.21% average on-time performance this year.
Airlink is an International Air Transport Association (IATA) member and accredited under its safety audit programme.
Photos: Justin de Reuck/Airlink.
A Helicopter of Hope: Bell Aircraft Helping Rocket EMS Save Lives in South Africa
Having a fully equipped aircraft couldn’t be more critical than when it comes to Helicopter
Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) missions. In many emergency scenarios, especially in
remote locations, helicopters often remain the sole method of quickly transporting patients to
hospitals. For Henley Air, the Bell 230 and Bell 222 are consistently relied on to provide vital
care to people throughout the country. Now, its mission has expanded, thanks to the
capabilities of its Bell fleet.
Henley Air has a dedicated division for HEMS operations known as Rocket EMS, serving as
a non-profit that provides medical transportation in the region. In late June, Rocket EMS
unveiled its vision for Kids Flight – an initiative designed to enable medical transportation for
children. While not an exclusive pediatric service, Henley Air wants to leverage existing
resources to pave the way for accessible EMS operations that support children and patients
in the region. Kids Flight will be managed by Rocket and Henley Air with investment from
local businesses.
To celebrate the beginning of this endeavor, Rocket EMS unveiled one of the Bell 230 air
ambulance helicopters branded in new Kids Flight livery. The design was inspired by the
ROCKET founders’ daughters canvassing their ideas – a personal family touch.
In South Africa, emergency response teams also assist in the distribution of supplies,
medicine and other forms of aid to affected areas in operations that cover large areas.
Henley Air, together with the Gift of the Givers Foundation, the largest disaster response,
non-governmental organization on the African continent, joined forces to distribute supplies
to those affected by a recent disaster.
Using Henley Air’s Bell 222 aircraft, emergency aid, including food, water and medicine, was
air dropped to hundreds of affected families in the town of Keimoes, which was affected by
severe flooding.
The Bell 222 and Bell 230 can be configured for HEMS or utility transport missions and
accommodate eight passengers on board. They have been reliable assets in the country to
support numerous transportation missions for business and emergency needs. Now, the
aircraft will be used for a new purpose with Kids Flight and save even more lives.
Bell is on its own mission to change the way the world flies – with superior vertical lift that
helps save lives, while also playing a critical role in the safety operations of those affected by
disasters across the globe.
Sky Grand Prix of Aerobatics Thrills Durban Crowd
The 3rd edition of the Sky Grand Prix of Aerobatics (SkyGP) took place on Friday, June 16, 2023, at Virginia Airport in Durban, marking a significant aviation event for the city. Durban had not witnessed such a large-scale aviation spectacle since 2017 when the Armed Forces Day was held in the region.
Building on the success of its previous editions, the SkyGP first debuted at the Land, Sea, and Air Festival in 2014, followed by the second edition at Greyville Racecourse in 2016. Notably, the last air show in Durban occurred as far back as 2013. This year’s event was greeted by fantastic winter weather in Durban, complemented by the fact that it coincided with a public holiday. As a result, eager crowds flocked to Virginia Airport, eagerly anticipating the breathtaking displays by the participating aircraft.
The SkyGP competition is a timed and judged event encompassing three categories: Known Sequence, Unknown Sequence, and Freestyle Sequence. The event was skillfully hosted by Dave Guselli, renowned for his work on East Coast Radio, and seasoned aerobatics pilot Mike “Spanky” Gallaway from Texas, USA. Mike expertly provided detailed commentary throughout the day, enlightening the public about the aerobatic maneuvers, timings, and aircraft information, ensuring everyone remained well-informed about the proceedings and what they could expect.
The event kicked off with a pilots parade, allowing spectators to catch a glimpse of the talented contestants. The roster of pilots for this year’s SkyGP included:
Mark Hensman – South Africa – MX2 (registration N540MX)
Aarron Deliu – Australia – sharing Nigel Hopkins’s Extra EA-330SC (registration ZS-XSC)
Eugene Du Preez – South Africa – Extra EA-330SC (registration ZS-THS)
Aude Lemordant – France – sharing Mark Hensman’s MX2 (registration N540MX)
Nigel Hopkins – South Africa – Extra EA-330SC (registration ZS-XSC)
Barrie Eeles – South Africa – Extra EA-330SC (registration ZS-XBE)
Patrick Davidson – South Africa – GameBird GB-1 (registration N71PD)
Following the pilots parade, the Durban Skydive Centre added to the excitement with thrilling displays and pinpoint landings in front of the enthralled spectators.
Tristan Eeles, who was not competing, delivered a remarkable warm-up display for the known sequence category. This display served as an opportunity for the judges to assess the aerobatic “display box” and practice scoring, while Mike Gallaway guided the crowd through the sequence, explaining the maneuvers and the scoring and timing systems. Tristan’s almost flawless sequence display highlighted his potential as an upcoming aerobatics pilot, making him one to watch in the future.
The known sequence category commenced with the participating contestants flying in the order determined by a pre-event draw. Pilots had prior knowledge of the sequence, allowing them time to practice it. However, they were required to complete the sequence within a time frame of 2 minutes and 45 seconds to 3 minutes to avoid penalties. Each maneuver was meticulously judged, contributing to the contestants’ overall score.
Unfortunately, Aude Lemordant’s disqualification in the known sequence category resulted from a mistake during one of her maneuvers, causing her to cross the safety “deadline” between the display box and spectators. The deadline ensures ample space and safeguards for both the participants and the audience.
As some pilots shared aircraft, intermissions were filled with Cliff Chen’s captivating display. Cliff, a South African and world RC champion, showcased the capabilities of a Radio Controlled Slick 580, leaving the crowd gasping and cheering as he performed remarkable maneuvers that pushed the limits of what the R/C aircraft is capable of.
The unknown sequence category followed, with the pilots flying in the same predetermined order. Unlike the known sequence, the pilots were provided with the sequence on the evening prior to the event, allowing them time to study it but leaving no room for practice. Judging and timing were carried out similarly to the known sequence category.
During the lunch break, the skydivers treated the crowd to another thrilling display, while the NetCare 911 helicopter’s departure to attend to an emergency presented an opportunity for spectators to witness the takeoff of the Bell 430 helicopter.
After the break, the remaining pilots showcased their skills in the unknown sequence category. Each pilot strived to outperform the others, with mistakes opening doors for competitors to score higher. Ultimately, the competition remained fiercely contested, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats.
Nigel Hopkins and Jason Beamish, flying his Extra EA-330LX (registration ZS-EXT), delighted the audience with a sensational airshow display following the completion of the unknown sequence category. Their high-energy performance included close formation flying and breathtaking passes, captivating the crowd from start to finish.
Next up was the freestyle category, where the contenders had the freedom to perform their own routine. However, they were assessed on various disciplines and had to adhere as closely as possible to a 4-minute time frame while showcasing innovation, artistic flair, and flawless execution of individual maneuvers. Scores were based on the overall performance and innovation displayed.
Closing the flying portion of the day was a mesmerizing display by the Marksmen Aerobatic Team, comprising Mark Hensman, Jonnie Smith flying his Extra EA-330LX (registration ZS-SMI), and Eugene Du Preez. The team wowed the crowd with breathtaking close formation flying and high-energy passes, concluding their performance with a massive heart drawn in the sky, earning resounding cheers and applause from the appreciative audience.
The day concluded with the official results announcements and podium presentations, acknowledging the outstanding achievements of the participants across all categories.
The final results for the SkyGP events in their respective categories were as follows:
The organizers of the event deserve sincere gratitude for hosting the SkyGP in Durban, and appreciation goes out to everyone who contributed to its successful execution, particularly the sponsors.
The Sky GP was presented by Sky Grand Prix (Pty) Ltd, represented by Roger Deare and Nigel Hopkins, under the auspices of the Sport Aerobatic Club of South Africa and CIVA (International Aerobatic Commission).
Other officials who played key roles in the event include:
Contest Organiser: Roger Deare
Contest Director: Annie Boon
Contest Safety Officer: Cliff Lotter
Registrar and Scorer: Natalie Stark
Jury President CIVA: Mike ‘Spanky’ Gallaway
Chief Judge: Quintin Hawthorne
Judges: Guy Augur (France), Laszlo Liszkay (South Africa), Johnie Smith (South Africa)
Marketing: Katey Watkin
Medical team: Netcare 911
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Kumbululuka Kwa Bafana – Zambian Children’s Flight 2023
Felix Gosher is an Airline Transport Pilot Licence holder and charter pilot residing in Zambia Lusaka. Felix has been organizing the annual children’s flight for underprivileged children that have never flown in an aircraft before in South Africa, which started at Grand Central Airport in Midrand, South Africa and now taking place at the Magalies gliding club, Magaliesburg.
Five hundred Children who had never flown before now had a chance to leave the ground and feel for themselves what flight feels like over the past weekend at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport which is located in Chongwe District.
Felix also recently hosted the Elders flight which took a number of Elderly South African citizens for their first flight in an aircraft at Brakpan Airfield in the east rand of Johannesburg. Five hundred Children who had never flown before now had a chance to leave the ground and feel for themselves what flight feels likes!
After a successful Children’s Flight in Zambia last year on the flight line of the Zambia Airforce base in Lusaka. 2023 was surely another triumphant event with together with Belinda Gosher (Felix’s Wife) together with sponsors aircraft and pilots and the Zambia Airforce (ZAF), an event worthwhile seeing kids’ faces of excitement before and after their flight in an aircraft for the first time.
The South African media generously sponsored a flight ticket to attend the event on behalf of Aviation Central. Our flight took us from OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg on a local flight operator in Zambia, Proflight on a CRJ on a two-hour journey to Zambia Lusaka. The Southern Sun Ridgway Hotel kindly sponsored the South African Media team for two nights of accommodation.
On arrival, we were greeted by Felix and Belinda at the Airforce side of Kenneth Kaunda International Airport. Of course, the day before the event, set up is key, as making sure all is in order for the following day with vendors and helping hands busy with their assigned tasks. Without sponsors, this event would not take place.
We arrived at the airport awaiting the arrival of the children from a number of homes and orphanages through the approval of the Zambia ministry to fly an aircraft and enjoy a day with food and entertainment. The first of the morning’s proceedings started off with the lord’s prayer to kick start a safe and give an assurance that the children would remember endlessly.
The arrival of the Chief of the Zambia Air Force Lieutenant General Colin Barry, with the air force band relaying the Zambia National Anthem, while a Y12 dropped skydivers from the Zambia Airforce. One of the skydiving members also flew the Zambian flag on his return to the ground.
Alpha & Bravo Flight was up first with a Proflight Boeing 737-5Y0 and a Zambia Airforce MA60 transport aircraft to take the first load of children for their flight.
During the speeches, “ZAF Commander, Lieutenant General Colin Barry said the event was important as it was centered around inclusivity, awakening innovation and the pursuit of knowledge among vulnerable children.”
“Let’s challenge everyone to think bigger and reach higher. Through these activities we are giving the underprivileged children a glimpse of the future that is full of possibilities,” Lieutenant General Barry said.
This was followed by Charlie’s flight with more Zambia Airforce assets including a Beechcraft 1900, Cessna 208B Caravan, Y12, MA60, and a civilian King Air and a lonesome Britten-Norman BN-2 Islander.
It was then the start of the flying festivities with the Zambia Airforce Golden Eagles. The Hongdu JL-8 (K8) display team is made up of five Karakorum-8. This was a first for Aviation Central to see this jet display team in action and all we could say is WOW…
On the completion of the K8s, South African airshow display pilot Jason Beamish took to the air with his high-energy aerobatic display in his Extra 330LX. This was the first civilian aerobatic display in 50 years of independence. Jason was surely a favorite of the day with the crowd as well as the Zambia air force pilots.
On completion, it was the first of the smaller aircraft to take to the air with a combination of the Zambia Airforce. Including Cessna 206s, Beechcraft Barons, Cessna C185s, Cessna C210s, and Piper Cherokee just to name a few. The Zambia Airforce L15s were then next to do a few low-level fly-past. Being at an International airport, onlookers are able to see a number of airlines arriving, an added treat being so close to the runway on the flight line at ZAF Lusaka Airforce Base.
The ZAF hangar that was provided for utilization for the event, had a number of arrangements of seating and tables for the little ones to enjoy their meal and provide an aviation party with DJ Switcher on the turn table. Goodie bags with hats, sunglasses, and snacks were also provided.
After each of the displays, the children were able to meet and greet the display pilots and a boost of encouragement for them to become pilots in the ZAF or in the aviation industry, with that said another successful children’s flight came to an end.
Well done Felix and all that made the 2023 Zambia Children’s Flight takeoff! Thanks to everyone who made it possible to get Aviation Central to this year’s Zambia Children’s Flight.
FLY FEED LOVE INSPIRE