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Excitement Soars at the Pietermaritzburg Airshow
The skies over Pietermaritzburg roared to life on Saturday 10th August 2024, as the FUZE Pietermaritzburg Airshow 2024 delivered a thrilling spectacle of aerial acrobatics and precision flying. Despite the sweltering heat, the event was a resounding success, with enthusiastic spectators enjoying a seamless entry experience thanks to the efficient ticketing system managed by TicketPro.
From the very start, the crowd was kept entertained and informed by the dynamic commentary provided by Brian Emmenis from Capital Sounds. His deep knowledge of the pilots and aircraft, combined with his engaging delivery, added an extra layer of excitement to the day’s events. Assisting him was Thamsanqa Elvis Manene, also from Capital Sounds, who did a fantastic job of providing commentary in isiZulu for the spectators, ensuring that everyone could fully enjoy and understand the show.
The event kicked off in spectacular fashion with the skydivers from the Durban Skydive Centre making a dramatic entrance. Leaping from the Aerospatiale SA-341F2 Gazelle, expertly piloted by Jubba Joubert, the skydivers painted the early morning sky with their colorful chutes, setting the tone for the day. The sight of these fearless jumpers descending from the heavens was a breathtaking start that had the crowd cheering in admiration.
Following this thrilling opening, a mass formation flypast brought together seven aircraft in a coordinated aerial ballet. The pilots executed intricate maneuvers in perfect sync, showcasing both their individual skills and their ability to work as a cohesive unit. The formation ended with a spectacular break, leaving the spectators in awe of the precision and timing on display.
The excitement continued with the Marksmen Aerobatics Team taking to the skies. They wowed the crowd with thrilling maneuvers such as the switchblade and knife-edge crossovers, demonstrating their extraordinary control and daring. The crowd’s gasps of awe echoed across the airfield as the Marksmen performed these gravity-defying stunts with razor-sharp precision.
Next up was Andrew Blackwood-Murray in the Nashua Extra 300 EA 300LP. His display was nothing short of spectacular as he pushed the aircraft to its limits, executing loops, rolls, and spins with breathtaking finesse. The Nashua Extra 300’s agility was on full display, leaving spectators mesmerized by the sheer power and grace of the aircraft.
Following Andrew’s performance, Jubba Joubert returned to the skies, this time showcasing the incredible capabilities of the Gazelle helicopter. His gravity-defying moves left the audience in awe as he maneuvered the Gazelle with an ease that belied the complexity of the stunts. The crowd watched in amazement as Jubba put the Gazelle through its paces, proving that helicopters can be just as thrilling as their fixed-wing counterparts.
Just as the show seemed to be settling into its rhythm, it was suddenly interrupted for a seemingly impromptu flight to celebrate a local man’s 100th birthday. The elderly man, strapped into a Piper J-3C-65 Cub, was ready for a simple joyride. However, as the pilot was checking the aircraft and had just started the engine, the plane began to move—with the centenarian at the controls! To the shock of the crowd, the old man managed to take off, with paramedics and security services chasing after the runaway aircraft.
What followed was a nerve-wracking series of low-altitude flypasts, the Cub wobbling precariously as it skimmed the ground. Officials frantically tried to talk the birthday boy through the landing process over the radio, the tension mounting with each attempt. Finally, after several shaky passes, the old man managed to bring the Cub down safely, only to be tackled by security as he exited the plane.
It was at that moment that the big reveal was made: the entire scenario had been a masterfully executed stunt. The “100-year-old man” was none other than Scully Levin, one of South Africa’s most experienced pilots, with over 30,000 hours of flying time. The crowd erupted in applause and laughter as Levin waved, having expertly piloted the Cub through its paces, demonstrating the aircraft’s capabilities in a brilliantly staged act of showmanship.
The show continued with the Navion Formation, a stunning display by aircraft built by North American Aviation, the same company that made the famous P-51 Mustangs. The Navion Formation delivered a powerful performance, showcasing the durability and grace of these classic aircraft in a series of elegant maneuvers that honored their storied legacy.
After the Navions, the Aermacchi AM3-C “Bosbok” took to the skies. These aircraft, used in conflict situations in the 70s and 80s in multiple roles such as target marking (using smoke-rockets) and reconnaissance, proved their versatility once again. Piloted by Grant Timms, the Bosbok delivered a fantastic display, demonstrating the aircraft’s agility and adaptability in various situations.
Following the Bosbok’s impressive performance, Scully Levin and his daughter Sally Fleck returned to perform in a Van’s RV-6. Their coordinated maneuvers in the RV-6 highlighted the aircraft’s capabilities, charming the crowd with a beautiful display of precision flying and familial teamwork.
After the Van’s RV-6 display, the show paused for a lunch break. During this time, the pilots gathered at the “Smoke on Go” stand, where spectators had the opportunity to meet their aviation heroes and collect autographs. This interaction was widely welcomed and supported by the crowd, adding a personal touch to the day’s events.
Following the lunch break, the skydivers took to the skies once again, delighting the audience with their precision jumps and colorful parachutes. The Marksmen team followed with another round of thrilling aerobatics, leaving the crowd in awe of their skill and daring. As the airshow continued, the routine was briefly interrupted by the arrival of an Airlink Embraer ERJ-135, a reminder that the airport was still operating commercial flights amidst the excitement of the airshow.
The show then continued with more spectacular performances from the Bosbok, Navions, and the Gazelle, each aircraft showcasing its unique capabilities in breathtaking displays. As the airshow progressed, there was a brief pause to allow the Airlink jet to take off, seamlessly blending the ongoing commercial operations with the day’s thrilling events.
Adding to the day’s excitement, Andrew Blackwood-Murray returned to the skies in the Nashua Extra 300 for another adrenaline-pumping performance. Pushing the aircraft to its limits once more, Andrew executed a series of complex maneuvers with unmatched precision and flair, leaving the audience cheering and craving more.
Bringing the event to a memorable close, the FUZE Aviation Academy took center stage with a remarkable display showcasing their exceptional training skills. The academy’s pilots performed a series of coordinated maneuvers and formations, demonstrating the high level of proficiency and professionalism that FUZE Aviation Academy instills in its trainees. The performance served as an inspiring testament to the future of aviation talent being nurtured by the academy.
As the sun set on the airfield, the FUZE Airshow 2024 concluded. It was especially great to see the Pietermaritzburg Airshow back after a 10-year gap, soaring to great heights and delivering a day full of excitement, skill, and breathtaking aerial displays that will be cherished by all who attended. The seamless blend of entertainment, community engagement, and professional aviation showcased the best of Pietermaritzburg’s aviation spirit, leaving spectators eagerly anticipating a bigger and better spectacle next year.
A special thank you goes out to all the organizers, vendors, and everyone involved who contributed to making the show a great success. This includes, but is not limited to, FUZE Aviation Academy, Creative Space Media, Smoke On Go, Capital Sounds, ALS Paramedics, local authorities, and Air Show South Africa officials who kept the show running smoothly and safely.
Please enjoy the full gallery of photos from the show below.
Flysafair flyover – Loftus Versfeld Stadium 8th July 2023
8th July 2023, was a collective effort of various teams (sport and aviation amongst a large number of teams involved) that went off very well. A large of planning and approvals went into it and this can be seen. If you are not sure what we are referring to… it is the FlySafair flyover at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria, South Africa.
The reason for this flyover is that is was the start of the Castle Lager Rugby Championship. To mark this special occasion, our friends at FlySafair did not send one but two of their B737-800’s not one but twice over Loftus. The aircraft involved were ZS-FGZ and ZS-ZWO.
Team work did indeed make dream work as the Springboks won the match against Wallabies 43-12. The entire day was an testament to working together and achieving great results… this also applied to us at Aviation Central with team members scattered over Pretoria to get the best possible angles for this historic event. This was the first time that the new FlySafair Springbok livery was on display, the first FlySafair flyover at Loftus and the first flyover that involved two FlySafair B737-800’s. During the flight/flyover ZS-ZWO was the most tracked flight in the world on Flightradar24.
There are so many people that played a role in the day, to many to mention but to each and everyone we would want to say a massive thank you. Great memories were made, new friends were made and South Africa came together as one to support the Springboks.
We just wonder if the next Qantas flight will have a squawk of 4213… (just kidding).
Please do not forget that FlySafair is running a great competition for the best photo of yesterday’s flyover. Why not give it a shot and enter?
Crews:
Captain Wouter van Ginkel
Captain Henk van den Berg
Captain Steve van der Merwe
Captain Johan von Solms
Captain Pierre Gouws
Captain Henco Vermeulen
If you missed our previous post with regards to the efforts made by FlySafair for the flyover, please visit https://t.co/ocZXBZMGxr
StrongerTogether #RSAvAUS #springboks #teamwork
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.
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Reno Air Racing Association officially seeks bids for future home of National Championship Air Races
The Reno Air Racing Association (RARA) is officially seeking bids from interested airports and localities that wish to partner with the organization to host future events. The 59th National Championship Air Races will take place for the final time at the Reno-Stead Airport on September 13 – 17, with an airshow to follow in 2024, before moving to its future home. The event was recently named the top airshow in the United States and the runner-up in North America in the 2023 USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Travel Award. To view the instructions and learn more, visit the proposal page here.
“We are incredibly excited to look at this next evolution of the National Championship Air Races and the ways in which we can further grow the event for current and future generations of air race fans,” said Fred Telling, chairman and CEO of the Reno Air Racing Association. “This year’s event will be a celebration of our legacy and allow us to springboard forward as we search for a new home for the event. We’re thankful for all of the interest we’ve already received from prospective sites and look forward to an exciting RFP process.”
The National Championship Air Races is the only event of its kind in the world and is a vibrant part of aviation’s culture and history. The event annually brings tens of thousands of patrons from all over the world and has generated an economic impact of over $100 million for the region. Potential partners may be able to host the current seven race classes at one location or hosts may be part of a larger, multi-city series of race events. Other attractions, such as various military displays and demonstrations, will continue to be a part of future events.
“Our RFP selection committee is excited to get to work on this project and to see the possibilities for the event’s next home,” said Terry Matter, vice board chairman for the Reno Air Racing Association and RFP committee lead. “We have a talented group of 12 members made up of other RARA board members, race pilots, engineers, and consultants who have been chosen for their combined knowledge and familiarity with the detail and scope of what it takes to produce, manage, and market the National Championship Air Races. With their expertise, we feel confident we will select the best location for the event’s continued success.”
About the National Championship Air Races
The National Championship Air Races are held every September just north of Reno by the Reno Air Racing Association, a 501(c)(3). The event has become an institution for Northern Nevada and aviation enthusiasts from around the world with seven racing classes, a large display of static aircraft and several military and civilian flight demonstrations. Independent economic impact studies show that the event generates as much as $100 million annually for the local economy. For more information on the National Championship Air Races, visit AirRace.org.