Yearly Archives: 2018
International Day Of Peacekeepers 29 May 2018
The “International Day Of Peacekeepers“, May 29, is “a day to pay tribute to all the men and women who have served and continue to serve in United Nations Peacekeepers Operations their high level of professionalism, dedication, and courage and to honor the memory of those who have lost their lives in the cause of peace.The day is marked at the United Nations headquarters in New York City with the presentation of the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal, statements by the President of the General Assembly and the Secretary-General, as well as a press release regarding the state of UN Peacekeeping missions and the continued necessity of their work.
There are also observances around the world; often countries will honor their own peacekeepers abroad, but the UN also organizes festivals, discussion forums, and memorials in cooperation with local and national groups.
The South African National Defence Force Commemorated the International Day Of Uninted Nationats Peacekeepers at De Brug Weapons range outside of Bloemfontein,Free State South Africa.More than 50 South African soldiers have been killed in Blue Helmets’ missions in West Africa and the Democratic Republic of Congo during the course of the last couple of years during peace keeping missions.
A Wreath Laying was placed by SANDF Chief General Solly Shokewho joined families of the SANDF personnel that died while on United Nations peacekeeping missions.
Wesbank Botswana International Airshow 2018
The 2018 Botswana International Airshow held at the Matsieng Airfield a few kilometers outside of Gaborone. We arrived the Friday afternoon an allocated to our tents,all thanks to the Matsieng Flying Club, The theme this year was ‘Wings of fire and wheels of fury’ held over the weekend of the 26th May.
Wesbank Botswana international airshow + Fly-in and camping was a sell-out event this year. 311 guys and gals flew in to Matsieng aerodrome for the weekend. They made use of 128 rented tents and 41 provided own tents for the weekend, this brining a record 169 tents. Some people made use of the Town Lodge in Gaborone.
The Friday and Saturday evening was festive with an excellent band proving entertainment both evenings, Fly in pilots, Display Pilots and crew all braai’ing or getting a burger / steak from the mobile spur that was setup. We can recommend those that can fly in or drive in to attend the 2018 event and social with all other pilots and display pilots plus attend an amazing and adrenaline packed airshow.
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With this airshows,some things were abit different,one had the option to camp over at the airfield where the show was to take place. Not many shows on the African contitnent you can camp over at an Airshow but Matsieng you can. The show at Matsieng Airfield has now been goping since the first show started at the field back in 2012. The Matsieng Flying Club really went all out for this year show, making sure all the pilots and other visitors were looked after and made sure their stay was comfortable in every way. We were treated to a live band on both Friday and Saturday night with the many bond fires that kept us warm during the average winter evening.We were then welcomed the next morning with perfect airshow weather and some of the crowds eagerly wanting to get a front row seat. The two safety directors for the day was Chris Briers and Col.Francois ‘Hosepipe’ Hanekom which made the show flow smoothly during the course of the day.
The show opened by a free fall of skydivers,with their jump-ship a PAC750 flown by Darius Briers,followed after that a two-ship display by the Goodyear Eagles in their Pitts S2Bs flown by Dennis Spence and Larry Beamish. Glen ‘Gringo’ Warden flew the L29 Delphin in its stricking Tiger scheme.Andrew Blackwood Murray flew his Nashua Extra 300LP and Neville Ferreria flew his Kitty Hawk based Slick 540 in his high energy aerobatic sequence.Later in the day Neville and Andrew joined up for a formation pass both in the Extra and in the Slick. Matthew Zalewski put two different Magni Gyros through their paces during the course of the day.The Bathawk flew a great display and showed why its a great asset to combating poaching in Southern Africa.The Raptors Rvs made a welcome return flying RV7s flown by Pierre Gouws,Larry Beamish and Ryan Beaton.
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The welcome appersnce of ex Presidnet Ian Khama and memebrs of the Matsieng Flying Club handed over Charity Cheques to the lady Khama Trust,The Motswedi Rehabilitation Centre,The Masire Foundation and the Movhudi Centre for the Blind.Brian Emmenis from Capital Sounds provided the long speaker line so spectators coyuld get all thr information about aircraft and pilots displaying on the day,assisted by the Capitals sound crew and Leon Du Plessis and Keith Fryer adding to the commentary team for the day!
Menno Parsons made a great appearance with his Bell 407 and his Pilatus PC12,which made up for the absence of the P51 Mustang.The mighty Bell 430 flown by Alister Brown really gave a real thump on his passes and showed the VIP helicopter to its full capability.Other helicopter action saw the Brakpan Airfield based Alouette II and III flown by Rob Osner and Juba Jourbert. True North Aviation saw a three-ship of Citabria aircraft flying gentle aerobatics,the Matsieng Flying Club preformed a formation flypast from two Cessna 210s,a Cirrus SR22 and King Air C90.A solo display from both the Cessna 210 and King Air was a real delight.The Air tractor also part of True North Aviation also did a display of low level passes while dropping water in front of the crowds.
The An2 ‘Little Annie’ was displayed by Jon-Marc Hill and South African Air force Airshow Air Boss Col.Keith ‘Fulcrum’ Fryer.The day before they treated some pupil from some schools around the vicinity of Botswana in a flight in Little Annie,and did they enjoy it!
The Randolph Boeing Stearman flown by Ivan van der Schaar also showed off the gentles aerobatics of the aircraft and the beautiful sound of the Radial.Conrad Botha flew his slick 360 and becoming a great aircraft to watch at airshows after an absence for some time
Cliff Lotter flew in his Klerksdorp based Rv7,he then joined up with Marin Venn in his RV7.Neville Ferreira flew Jonty Essers Kitty Hawk based Yak 52 adding some russian flavour of aircraft to the program.
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The Puma flying Lions led by Captain Scully Levin performed their usual display routine and taking part in a fly-by with a big wall of fire,having most of the crowd on their feet and heart beats been raised.
The Puma Flying Lions then closed the show off with their spectacular night display,once again another successful airshow from the Matsieng Flying club,well done to all involved and we look forward to seeing the team again next year!
“The mini Oshkosh of Southern Africa,if you love airshows come to Matsieng next year”Jarryd Sinovich
“What an amazing show, the guys from Matsieng has once again showed what an Airshow should be like. To the Airshow team, Camping team and Media Boss, Well-done to you all. See you at the 2019 Matsieng Airshow and Fly In” Flippie van Emmenis
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Please browse through our Gallery for more pictures from the show:
Aero Weather
Aero Event Weather by Aero Weather 
This page is dedicated to informing you about the weather forecast for a coming weekend, Weather information proudly provided by Aero Weather. For more detailed weather or weather for other locations please contact Aero Weather at info@aeroweather.co.za, Deon standing by to assist you!
AIRFIELD FORECAST Ballito – 26/05/2018
| DATE | 26/05/2018 | |||||||||
| SYNOPSIS | The surface high pressure shifts eastwards, with low cloud trapped seaward of the escarpment. Low cloud advances as far north as Hoedspruit. | |||||||||
| TIME | WIND | VIS | WEATHER | OCTAS | TYPE | BASE | TOPS | T/DPT | QNH | |
| 03Z | 21005KT | >10km | NIL | 6/8 | SC | FL015 | FL035 | 17/15 | 1021 | |
| 06Z | 27004KT | >10km | -RA | 7/8 | SC | FL015 | FL050 | 18/15 | 1023 | |
| 09Z | 08005KT | >10km | -RA | 6/8 | SC | FL015 | FL050 | 21/16 | 1022 | |
| 12Z | 07009KT | >10km | -RA | 7/8 | SC | FL015 | FL050 | 21/16 | 1020 | |
| 15Z | 05011KT | >10km | -RA | 7/8 | SC | FL015 | FL050 | 20/17 | 1020 | |
| 18Z | 03010KT | >10km | -RA | 7/8 | SC | FL015 | FL050 | 20/17 | 1021 | |
| 21Z | 03010KT | >10km | NIL | 5/8 | SC | FL015 | FL050 | 19/17 | 1021 | |
| 24Z | 02009KT | >10km | NIL | 5/8 | SC | FL015 | FL035 | 19/17 | 1020 | |
| DATE | 26/05/2018 |
| ROUTE | Inbound from inland |
| SYNOPSIS | A surface high pressure pushes low cloud in south of the escarpment with very low bases where terrain rises. |
| SIGNIFICANT WEATHER | Bases too low in rain to approach from the north – only low level along the coast may by flyable. |
AERO WEATHER (PTY) LTD Reg 2014/118701
For a detailed enroute forecast, please send an email to info@aeroweather.co.za
GENERAL ENROUTE WEATHER OUTBOUND FROM FATP 26/05/2018 (Afternoon)
| DATE | 26/05/2018 (Afternoon) |
| ROUTE | Outbound towards KZN and Mpumalanga. |
| SYNOPSIS | A surface high pressure forces low cloud in over areas seaward of the Drakensberg and Nelspruit escarpment. |
| SIGNIFICANT WEATHER | Rain and low base south of the Drakensberg (IFR only). FAKN Mountains closing in after 1500 local. |
| DATE | 26/05/2018 |
| ROUTE | Outbound towards Northern Cape, Free State, Limpopo, NW and Eastern Cape |
| SYNOPSIS | A surface trough extends from Upington to Port Elizabeth, with limited amounts of altocumulus above FL120 over N Free State, NW and Gauteng. |
| SIGNIFICANT WEATHER | No low cloud. |
| DATE | 26/05/2018 |
| ROUTE | Outbound towards Western Cape |
| SYNOPSIS | A cold front is present just south of Cape Town, with isolated rain showers in places south and west of Laingsburg. |
| SIGNIFICANT WEATHER | Mountains obscured in cloud south of Laingsburg. |
AERO WEATHER (PTY) LTD Reg 2014/118701
For a detailed enroute forecast, please send an email to info@aeroweather.co.za
Matsieng AIRFIELD FORECAST FBMA (3320ft) 25-27/05/2018
| DATE | 25/05/2018 | |||||||||
| SYNOPSIS | A surface high pressure south of the country forces low level cloud inland south of the South African escarpment. The escarpment prevents the cloud from moving in north of the Orange River and Drakensberg, leaving the interior clear. | |||||||||
| TIME | WIND | VIS | WEATHER | OCTAS | TYPE | BASE | TOPS | T/DPT | QNH | |
| 03Z | 31003KT | >10km | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | 15/02 | 1018 | |
| 06Z | 26003KT | >10km | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | 16/02 | 1020 | |
| 09Z | 27004KT | >10km | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | 25/00 | 1019 | |
| 12Z | 25005KT | >10km | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | 28/-4 | 1015 | |
| 15Z | 22006KT | >10km | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | 26/-4 | 1015 | |
| 18Z | 19005KT | >10km | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | 20/-6 | 1017 | |
| 21Z | 20003KT | >10km | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | 19/-5 | 1018 | |
| 24Z | 22003KT | >10km | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | 16/-5 | 1018 | |
| DATE | 26/05/2018 | |||||||||
| SYNOPSIS | The surface high pressure shifts eastwards, with low cloud trapped seaward of the escarpment. Low cloud advances as far north as Hoedspruit. | |||||||||
| TIME | WIND | VIS | WEATHER | OCTAS | TYPE | BASE | TOPS | T/DPT | QNH | |
| 03Z | VRB02KT | >10km | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | 14/-5 | 1018 | |
| 06Z | VRB02KT | >10km | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | 17/-4 | 1021 | |
| 09Z | 36003KT | >10km | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | 26/-3 | 1020 | |
| 12Z | 33004KT | >10km | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | 28/-3 | 1016 | |
| 15Z | 10003KT | >10km | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | 25/-1 | 1016 | |
| 18Z | 06004KT | >10km | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | 20/-3 | 1018 | |
| 21Z | 36004KT | >10km | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | 19/-3 | 1019 | |
| 24Z | 35004KT | >10km | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | 16/00 | 1020 | |
| DATE | 27/05/2018 | |||||||||
| SYNOPSIS | A surface high pressure moves in over Mpumalanga, with morning low cloud expected to the east of a line from Gauteng to Ellisras. | |||||||||
| TIME | WIND | VIS | WEATHER | OCTAS | TYPE | BASE | TOPS | T/DPT | QNH | |
| 03Z | 04003KT | >10km | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | 14/03 | 1021 | |
| 06Z | 03003KT | >10km | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | 16/04 | 1022 | |
| 09Z | 03005KT | >10km | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | 23/06 | 1021 | |
| 12Z | 33005KT | >10km | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | 28/02 | 1018 | |
| 15Z | 04003KT | >10km | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | 26/02 | 1017 | |
| 18Z | 05004KT | >10km | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | 21/01 | 1020 | |
| 21Z | 36004KT | >10km | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | 18/02 | 1021 | |
| 24Z | 35003KT | >10km | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | NIL | 17/02 | 1021 | |
AERO WEATHER (PTY) LTD Reg 2014/118701
For a detailed enroute forecast, please send an email to info@aeroweather.co.za
| DATE | 25/05/2018 |
| ROUTE | Inbound from Gauteng |
| SYNOPSIS | A surface high pressure pushes low cloud in south of the escarpment with clear weather north of Lesotho. |
| SIGNIFICANT WEATHER | None |
| DATE | 25/05/2018 |
| ROUTE | Inbound from Free State |
| SYNOPSIS | A surface high pressure pushes low cloud in south of the escarpment with clear weather north of Lesotho. |
| SIGNIFICANT WEATHER | None |
| DATE | 27/05/2018 |
| ROUTE | Outbound towards Gauteng |
| SYNOPSIS | A surface high pressure causes some low cloud over parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga in the morning. |
| SIGNIFICANT WEATHER | Morning cloud only seaward of escarpment. |
| DATE | 27/05/2018 |
| ROUTE | Outbound towards Free State |
| SYNOPSIS | A surface high pressure causes some low cloud over parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga in the morning, but clear weather to the west of the Vaal Dam. |
| SIGNIFICANT WEATHER | Morning cloud only seaward of escarpment. |
AERO WEATHER (PTY) LTD Reg 2014/118701
For a detailed enroute forecast, please send an email to info@aeroweather.co.za
Kishugu Lowveld Airshow 2018
Kishugu Lowveld Airshow 2018
Friday, Midday our journey to Nelspruit in the Lowveld started by road from Gauteng, the Team for the Weekend was, Flippie & Lettie van Emmenis and Jarryd Sinovich. We got to Nelspruit Airport at about 16:00 and did our accreditation with the friendly Monica Fourie, once done we went to checking Sheba Rock Guest House our accommodation for the weekend. This was followed by a 780m quick trip to the Mini Boss music festival, this festival started with Brian Emmenis and Willem Botha arriving and a Robinson R44 shortly followed by the Flying Lions doing a sunset display before the music started. During the evening a hot air balloon did some night glows adding to the amazing atmosphere. The artists for the evening was and Willem Botha, Touch of Class and Bok van Blerk
Touch of Class
Bok van Blerk
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Airshow
After a fun filled night before at Minibos,we were up early and we had the Hot Air balloons up and about filling the early morning skies above Nelspruit.Nelspruit Airport was originally the only airfield serving the region. For commercial flights, it has mainly been replaced by the new Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport.Today the airfield still has the Lowveld Aero Club where many pilots learned to fly including airshow display pilot Ivan van der Schaar. Compare to last year we were blessed with beautiful airshow weather and the days program flowed smoothly.The theme for this years show was ‘Rock The Runway’.
The show started with a Para drop from ‘Little Annie’ AN2 flown by Jon-Marc-Hill and a SAAF Casa 212 from 44 Squadron AFB Waterkloof,both had civilian skydivers and SANDF skydivers including the SAAF Golden Eagles Parachute Team. Different Harley Davidsons were part of the Cavalcade as the skydivers cam into land.Lowveld Radio Control Club flew their aerobatic RC aircraft,while a Kit fox showed off the aircraft versatility .The Bathawk showed why it can be such a great asset to tackling Rhino-Poaching in the Kruger National Park and other private reserves around the country .Airlink provided an Embraer E190 with two beautiful displays during the day.
High energy aerobatics from Team Extreme flying the MX2,Sbach,Extra 300 and Extra 330,led by SAA Training Captain Nigel Hopkins who also led the Goodyear Eagles flying Pitts S2Bs.It was the debut of the CHOC Cows Aerobatic team led by Scully Levin and also leading the Puma Flying Lions.Another airshow debut in his new colour scheme was Neville Ferreira in his Kitty Hawk based Slick 540.During the end of the program most display teams formed up in major formation which really isn’t seen at airshows in South Africa to often. Little Annie was then put through its paces in a solo display flown by Jason Beamish and Jon-Marc Hill. Ivan van der Schaar flew his Boeing Stearman with gentle aerobatics.
Capital Sounds were present from their busy schedule coming up, they’re provided the show with music from producer Ricky Fouche and commentary from Brian Emmenis ,Elvis Manene and Leon Du Plessis,making sure the public had information on aircraft and the pilots present.line technicians Phillip Smith, Elvis Manene, Eric Nkomo and Wesley van Zyl, who also raced Little Annie on takeoff with the Yamaha sponsored scooter where Wesley was blown away!.
The South African Air force was present with a 2 Squadron JAS39D Gripen operating out of AFB Makhado flown by Major Mohau ‘Doberman’ Vundla and Navigator Marc ‘Bluebird’ Wilson.The 44 Squadron Casa 212 was used as a jump ship for the SANDF skydivers.A lonely 19 Squadron Oryx helicopter was on standby if any incidents had to occur during the day, it was used when a SANDF skydiver had trouble with his canopy and landed in a field not to far from the airshow center. The Ground Liaison Officer for the SAAF aircraft flying wads Major Ashley ‘Sensei’ Naxhe who now flies the Casa 212.
Working on fire had a number of aircraft flying during the show,this including a syncro drop from four AT802s and four Hueys .They’re were called out to go put a raging fire out on the outskirts of Nelspruit. The Airshow debut of the first civilian Blackhawk in South Africa ,what a great helicopter to see flying. We also saw to great displays from Danie Terblanche in the Robinson R66 and Juba Jourbert in the Aerospatiale Gazelle who also raced a Jaguar F-type and a super charged Range Rover Sport in a relay race.
Johan Heine, Chairman of the Lowveld Air Show and Safety director Francois ‘Hosepipe’ Hanekom made sure the show flowed smoothly .Kishugus Monica Fourie and Naranda Leewner kept Aviation Central with any news and regarding the show itself and providing us with great hospitality,we thank you.
The show ended with a dusk display from the Puma Flying Lions and Fireworks lighting the night sky up, this was another great Lowveld Airshow complete the rest of the night we were rocked away from the rock band.
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Opinions:
Flippie van Emmenis:
“After many years of obstacles and barriers I finally get to attend the Lowveld Airshow, I had rather high expiations of the show as I followed reviews of the all the Lowveld airshows I missed in the past. This was the one South African airshow I recommended to everyone is the one that was not to be missed and they did not disappoint, Well-done to the Team at Kishugu, Brian Emmenis and all the Pilots and Support crews for this amazing weekend. Your show and hospitality was top class! ”
Jarryd Sinovich:
“.What a great show,. Really enjoyed seeing the Blackhawk for the first time, see you all next year…”
Our next Airshow we are attending will be the Matsieng Airshow and Fly-in in Botswana 26 May 2018.
SAAF Museum Airshow 2018
SAAF Museum Airshow 2018
The long awaited annual SAAF Museum Airshow was held on the 5th May 2018,on some what perfect airshow weather.The show was conducted under the theme:Our Indomitable Spirit,both Civilian and Military aircraft and pilots showed off to the thousands of people that arrived early on Saturday morning at Air force Base Swartkop along side old Johannesburg Road in Valhalla, Pretoria. The SAAF Museum Airshow is designed to offer aviation enthusiasts, aviation institutions and publications ,the general public and as well as former and current SAAF an opportunity to reflect and or reminisce on the memories and presentations on history.
Youth exhibition Friday 2018-05-04
The day before the SAAF Museum and the SAAF hosted a career expo for learners around the Gauteng area. 14 different schools and a total of 1000 learners were invited to Hanger 4A to interact with some of the exhibiters including the south African Air Force.
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The Airshow Saturday 2018-05-05
The show started with paragliders who filled the skies with much colour to their bright chutes they were using as well as a single gyrocopter all operating out of the Grasslands field not to far from Swartkops. Next up the 28 Squadron C130BZ from AFB Waterkloof landed with a special surprise in being the SAAF Band that entertained the crowds until the show was officially opened, This has never been done at a airshow before in South Africa. The C130 then took off from the base to climb to altitude to drop the several parachutists from both the Golden Eagles Parachute team and member’s of the special forces.The landed just in time to meet and greet the Chief of the South African Air force Lieutenant General Fabian Zimpande Msimang and Officer Commanding Airforce Museum Swartkops Lieutenant Colonel Melvin Bruintjies.
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Capital Sounds provided sound equipment for the large crowd line, excellent commentary from Brian Emmenis,L eon Du Plessis and Elvis Manene. SAAF commentators that provided information for the ever eager public was Colonel Lance ‘Lancelot’ Mathebula who also provided commentary from one of the Hawk Mk120s during simulated top cover during the mini war.A first for a airshow. He was also joined by two new hawk pilots Captain ‘Comet’ Mfeka and Tiisetso ‘Lego’ Legodi.
Airboss for the show was Colonel Keith Fryer and also commentated during some of the display slots, Colonel Keith Andrews was ramp Boss and some of the best SAAF ATC’s were present keeping the airspace safe for display routines.
The show was opened by the Hawk Mk120 ‘Gannet’ flown by officer commanding of 85 Combat Flying School Craig ‘Shark’ Leeson,showing what the lead in fighter trainer is capable of and training the new generation fighter pilots on the type. The SAAF Museum heritage flight were straight after the Hawk landed,first up the helicopters consisting of the Alouettes II and III and Aerospatiale Puma.The Cessna 185s were soon over head the field followed by the formidable sound of the Atlas C4.M Kudu and Bosbok and Harvards.Glen ‘Gringo’ Warden flew a gentle solo display in the De Havilland T55 Vampire.
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The Rand Based Pitts Special teams flew their high energy display being the new Cows Aerobatic Team and the Goodyear Eagles Aerobatic Team led by Glen Warden, Johan Von Solms both ex fighter pilots joined Nigel Hopkins and Jason Beamish. Team Extreme performed their first airshow as a four ship led by Nigel Hopkins,Mark ‘Sammy’ Sampson,Mark ‘Bugs’ Hensman and Jason Beamish. The Mango 737-800 was flown out of Lanseria International Airport to display at the show by Captain Scully Levin and Captain Rodney Chinn.The Puma Flying Lions also flew a great display and were part of the 12 Harvard mass shutdown towards the end of the day!
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Andrew Blackwood Murray Displayed the Nashua Extra 300L and other aerobatic slots saw Patrick Davidson who flew up from Port Elizabeth in his Red Bull Sponsored Sbach 342, it was great to see Patrick at a airshow on the Highveld, he was joined by unlimited aerobatic class pilot Barrie Eels in his new Extra 330sc in a dual display of intense aerobatics.
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Ex Russian Jet trainers that flew at the show was Ex Sasol Tiger L29 ZU-AUX and L39 ZU-TEE in its new colour scheme,both flown by Glen ‘Gringo’ Warden.He definitely kept the photographers happy with his display passes.
The mini war that the crowd got to witness was a absolute treat to see the new and the old from the choppers,that being the Puma and the Oryx helicopters. The gunships saw the Alouette III and Rooivalk and two Agusta A109LUHs.The bosbok was also flown in the demonstration simulating airstrikes as well as two Hawk MK120s flown by Simon ‘Seraph’ Theunissen and Jabulani ‘Cyrax’ Mabona. The C130 was used to drop parabats on the far side of the field and the 44 Squadron Casa 212 was utilized for a supply drop, while the army engineers provided pyrotechnics in the background.
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Major Geoffrey ‘Spartan’ Cooper showed off the JAS39C Gripen from 2 Squadron, he definitely shows the aircraft well and in its limits. The crowds were on their feet during his famous dump and burn. The Pilatus PC7MKII was put through its paces by Major Bheki ‘Swaziboy’ Shabungu. 15 Squadron pilot Major Diaan Grobbelaar flew a awesome display in the Agusta A109LUH as well as Paul ‘Raccoon’ Kempthorn in the 16 squadron Rooivalk,great display from the chopper boys.
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The youngest airshow participant on the day was Ger-Drie de Beer flew his RC MX2,what a great display he did for the thousands of people he displayed for. Retired Gen. Des Barker few the first airshow display in the Atlas Angel, which is a upgraded Kudu with a Pt6 turbine engine, Gerrie ‘Sparkie’Pretorius flew a brilliant tight display in the Museum Cessna C185.
‘Little Annie’ an Antonov 2 showed why its the worlds largest Bi-Plane piloted by father and son team Mark and Jon-marc Hill. Jeff Earle flew his Vereeniging based De Havilland DH. 82 Tiger Moth.The Randolph sponsored Boeing Stearman flown by Comair Boeing Captain Ivan van der Schaar.28 Squadron flew their usual low-level routine in the C130Bz from 28 Squadron flown by Clint Hawtrey and Caro Duven.
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The SAAF Museum Puma dropped a car that apparently parked where it shouldn’t of been ,the public made sure it wasn’t their vehicle at the end of the day.At the end of the last act being the Gripen,Captain Mark Kelbrick proposed to his wife to be in front of of a large crowd who waited until the last slot of the day had been flown.
Gripen stopping in-front of the crowd at the end of the show… all for one reason…
Photo credit Niel Swart
Big congratulations to Mark and Megan that stole the show when as went down on one knee and proposed to her before the whole of the crowd in front of Gripen
Photo credit Niel Swart
This Museums show was definitely a winner, to Colonel Trish Schoeman, Colonel Melvin Bruintjies, Col. Keith Fryer and their team, we salute you on a great show and to all the spectators who attended the Airshow, till next year
‘Keep them Up where they’re belong‘
Click to enlrage
SAAF Museum Airshow Program
SAAF Museum Airshow Program
The Program is divided into two, Morning and Afternoon. The Program can change at any time due to Aircraft and / or Pilot availability.
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Morning Program
| Slot Time | Air Display Item | Aircraft Type |
|---|---|---|
| 8:00 | Paragliders | PPG |
| 8:15 | C130 - SAAF Band Exit | C130 |
| 8:30 | Golden Eagles Paradrop | Casa 212 |
| 8:45 | Opening Ceremony | Cavalcade |
| 9:00 | CAF Opening Address | Oryx/A109 Flags |
| 9:30 | Museum Aircraft Flypast | Museum Aircraft |
| 9:40 | Cessna 185 | C 185 |
| 9:50 | Vampire | Vampire |
| 10:00 | Nashua Extra | Extra 300L |
| 10:15 | Tiger Moth | DH82A |
| 10:30 | The Cows Pitts Team | Pitts S2 |
| 10:45 | Alouette Display | Alo-II and Alo-III's |
| 11:00 | Red Bull Aeros | Sbach 342 |
| 11:15 | Gripen | Gripen |
| 11:30 | Syncrho Harvards | Museum Harvards |
| 11:45 | Team Xtreme | Extra 330/Sbach |
| 12:00 | Mango | B737-800 |
| 12:10 | Flash Mob and RC Jets | RC Vampire |
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Afternoon Program
| Slot Time | Air Display Item | Aircraft Type |
|---|---|---|
| 12:20 | Mini War | Various |
| 13:00 | Aerobatics Unlimited L-29 | L-29 |
| 13:15 | Puma Car Drop | Puma/Oryx |
| 13:30 | Red Bull Aeros | Sbach 342 |
| 13:45 | Little Annie | An-2 |
| 14:00 | Goodyear Pitts Team | Pitts Specials |
| 14:15 | Randolph Boeing Stearman | Stearman |
| 14:30 | Angel Kudu and Paradrop | Turbo Kudu |
| 14:45 | PC-7 Astra Solo | PC-7 Astra |
| 15:00 | Unlimited Aerobatics | Extra 330 |
| 15:15 | Harvard Formos | Museum/HCSA |
| 15:30 | Puma Flying Lions | Lions Harvards |
| 15:45 | Hawk | Hawk 120 |
| 16:00 | Team Extreme | Extras/Sbachs |
| 16:15 | L-39 Albatross | L-39 |
| 16:30 | Rooivalk | Rooivalk |
| 16:45 | C-130-Angel Wings | C130 |
| 17:00 | Gripen - Flares | Gripen |
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Destruction is our business, 85 Combat Flying School
Destruction is our business, 85 Combat Flying School
85 Combat Flying School located at AFB Makhado (Airforce Base Makhado) in the Northern part of the Limpopo province of South Africa.The town is known as Fighter Town South Africa,and keeps two of South Africas prime fighter aircraft that the SAAF (South African Airforce) has to offer to protect our airspace. The BAE Hawk Mk120 and SAAB Jas39 C/D aircraft, took over the the role of the Aermacchi MB236 Impala Mk1 and Mk11 and Denel Cheetah C/D from the begenning of 2006 and 2008.
Photo:Franz Dely,Impala MkII ‘1085’
The Bombing Gunnery and Air Navigation School (BGANS) came into being a Langebaanweg on 1 August 1946 following the re-designation of the Air Gunnery and Navigation School.The unit was equipped with Avro Ansons,this was to train pilots in the secondary roles that comprised the original observer qualification.
Photo:SAAF
During the Korean War, South Africa’s commitment of 2 Squadron flying P51 Mustangs and F86 Sabres of the United Nations,Air Operations School(AOS) assumed the operational training of both permanent force and short-service commission pilots for service in the Far East as its primary role. Sabre’s were then sent to 85 Combat Flying school on 31 Octerber 1975.
Photo:Doug Drysdale
In October 1952 the School was introduced to the jet age when the first four de Havilland Vampire FB.MK5s,Seven FB.MK6s and solitary T.MK11s trainers were taken on strength to be used for type conversion.
Photo:Stefaan Bouwer.
Photo:George Wiehehn, Spitfire MkIXes ‘5591’
At the end of World War Two, the various flying, bombing and gunnery schools were disbanded and a single Bombing, Gunnery and Navigation School was established at Langebaanweg in 1946. In the 1950’s, the name changed to Air Operations School, flying Harvards, Spitfire MkIXes, Vampire T11s, FB52s and T55s. The unit moved to Pietersburg in October 1967 and in 1970 the Vampires were replaced by the Impala Mk I.
Photo:Franz Dely,Impala MK1 ‘585’ over AFB Hoedspruit 2004.
Known for its flight-training and combat operations school,85 combat flying school was formed in 1982 at AFB Pieteresburg,now Polokwane Gateway International Airport,at that time the unit was operating de Havilland Vampires MK52s and Mk55.South African Airforce Museum has still got an airworthy Vampire T55 flying at AFB Zwartkop in Pretoria that can be seen at Museum Flying Days and Pretoria Airshows.The Impala MK1 replaced the Vampires 1972.The Mirage IIIEZ/DZ/D2Z were added to the unit in 1974 and Sabres from 1 Squadron in 1975.The Sabre was withdrawn from service in 1980 and replaced by the Impala MK2 aircraft.
Photo:SAAF,Airforce Base Hoedspruit 85 Combat Flying School Static display.
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Photo:SAAF,Dassualt Mirage IIID2Z.
Photo:Jarryd Sinovich,de Havilland Vampire T55 SAAF Museum Flying Day February 2018.
85 Combat Flying School recieved its Unit Colours at a parade on 4 October 1988,the 21st Anniversary of its formation and National Colours a year later.On the initiative of then Officer Commanding(OC) Cmdt John Bayne Impala MKII 1063 was painted up in the Units familiar Gannet Badge in blue and white for the 25th anniverasry of its Establishment in September 1992.The aircraft was a regular preformer at Airshows around South Africa.
83 Jet Flying School Langebaanweg was also closed and has become part of 85 Combat Flying School, previous home to the Silver Falcons Aerobatic Team. The Silver Falcons Aerobatic team is now part of Langebaanweg Central Flying School,flying the PC7MKII.The Silver Falcons operated from Langebaanweg until the early 1990s, when all the Impala training was moved to Air Force Base Hoedspruit, in the Lowveld region of South Africa, and formed part of 85 Combat Flying School. During 1994 with a new national flag, the aircraft were repainted to represent the colours of the SA Air Force: blue, light blue and white.
Falcon 1 Photo:Russel dixon-paver
Top: Atlas Impala MKII 1063 ‘Gannet’ 1992.
Below:BAE Hawk MK120 267 ‘Gannet’2017.
The unit was then relocated to AFB Hoedspruit on January 1993 due to the closure of AFB Pietersburg.During this period the unit was using the Impala Mk1 and MkII aircraft,all mirages had been withdrawn from service..The Squadron carried out its role in the South African Airforce until the Impala both MKI and MKIIs were retired from service in 2005 and soon we had the introductory of the latest Hawk MK100 from BAE systems that got showcased to South Africa during the SAAFS 75th Anniveary Airshow at AFB Waterkloof in 1995.
Photo:BAE Systems,Bae Hawk 100 Demostrator seen in South Africa during 1995 and up to 2002.
BAE Systems Hawk is a British single-engine, jet-powered advanced trainer aircraft. It was first flown at Dunsfold, Surrey, in 1974 as the Hawker Siddeley Hawk, and subsequently produced by its successor companies, British Aerospace and BAE Systems, respectively. It has been used in a training capacity and as a low-cost combat aircraft.The Royal Airforce Aerobatic display team,The Red Arrows also use the Hawk as part of their aerobatic display assests and a training role.The Hawk MK120 is an upgraded Hawk T1,Aircraft number SA001, which was manufactured through to Final Assembly stages at Brough and flight-tested at Warton, successfully flew in South Africa early in 2004. Final Assembly of the remaining 23 aircraft was undertaken by Denel in South Africa, with flight-testing taking place in the South African Air Force’s Test Flight & Development Centre (TFDC) in Bredasdorp.
Photo:Franz Dely,first SAAF Hawk ‘250’ part of the TFDC unit in Bredasdorp.
Photo:Jarryd Sinovich, Hawk Mk120 ‘269’ landing at Airforce Base Zwartkop Pretoria May 2016,making use of the aircrafts drag chute.
Hawks ‘273’&’269′ airborne out of AFB Waterkloof September 2016
Today 85 Combat Flying School still lives up to its vision ‘Fighter Training Excellence’where some of the best new generation fighter pilots are trained before moving onto the SAAB Jas39 Gripen.The equipment for pilots training, the unit has a state of the art simulator,Ground school Falicities and so more to offer.To this day the OC of 85CFS is Lt Col Craig’Shark’Leeson,who is also the Squadrons Hawk display pilot during South Africas Airtshow season.Shark last year celebrated his 1 000 flying hour achievment on the Hawk Mk120 on friday,20 January 2017,he has flown 9 different types of fighter jets and is a A-category instructor on Hawk and Gripen.
Photo:Jarryd Sinovich,Hawk MK120 ‘271’ at AFB Zwartkop May 2017.Lt Col.Craig ‘Shark’ Leeson,Officer Commanding 85 Combat Flying School Currently.
Photo:Jarryd Sinovich,Silver Falcons Hawk formation,Kishugu Lowveld Airshow 2015.
Some information on the Hawk MK120
Aircraft Stats:
Powerplant: 1 x 6,500 lb (2 950 kg) Rolls-Royce Adour 951 turbofan
Speed: 1 038 kph, 645mph mph
Range: 2 594km, 1,612miles
Seats: 2
Length: 12.43m, 40ft 9in
Span: 9.94m, 7ft 7in
Empty Weight: 4 400kg, 9,700lb
Max T/O Weight: 9 100kg, 20,062lb
Period of Service: 2006 – Current
Weapons:
12.5 kg Practice Bomb, 120 kg Fragmentation Bomb, 120 kg Low-Drag Bomb, 145 kg Bomb, 4.5 kg Practice Bomb, 460 kg Bomb, Aden 30mm cannon, IRIS-T, Vicon 18-601E recce pod.
Photo:Jarryd Sinovich,Hawk ‘272’ making use of its 30mm Aden Cannon at Roodewal Bombing Range September 2016.
Hawk Mk120 ‘273’ AAD2016
We wish 85 all the best for their future,Flying the flag and continuing to train world class fighter pilots..Noise from above is always a welcome in Gauteng skies,The sound of freedom fighter pilots would say!Below are some pictures of Hawk taken all over South Africa and a Video featuring Craig ‘Shark’ Leeson during his display at the Saaf Museum Airshow 2017 taken by Shawn Herbst.
Click to enlarge photos below
Aerobatics Unlimited-The Goodyear Eagles Pitts Specials
Aerobatics Unlimited-The Goodyear Eagles Pitts Specials
The Goodyear Eagles Aerobatics Team has been in the forefront of bringing aerobatics excitement to the public for the past 29 years. Over this period the team has had several major sponsors, but Goodyear Aviation became the official team sponsor at the beginning of the 2009 season and we are both proud and honoured to be associated with this great company that have been in the forefront of Aviation Tyre technology since the very beginning of manned flight.
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Dennis Spence the founder and owner of the team, who is an ex SAA Captain on Airbus A340s and Boeing 747s. Deniis also landed both 747s at Rand Airport that are now on static display at the SAA Museum at Rand Airport. He was also a regular display pilot for SAA on the A340 and 747.
The team has also been a regular performer at air shows in Swaziland, Mozambique, Namibia, Zimbabwe and in 2008 were privileged to be invited to perform at the Al Ain International Aerobatic Show in the United Arab Emirate where we performed as “The Wizards” and our display included 2 Extra ES300’s, becoming, we think, the first team to perform with not only two different types of aircraft, but also incorporating two skydivers into the aerobatic display.
The Goodyear Eagles Aerobatic Team continually strive to enrich and improve our displays, not only to entertain but also to educate the airshow public of the full capabilities and manoverability of the wonderful aircraft we fly, namely the Pitts Special S2B and we strive to keep the skies full of thrills for the entire duration of our display.
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The Pitts S2B
General characteristics •
Crew: Two ( ONLY ONE DURING AEROBATIC DISPLAYS) • Length: 18 ft 9 in (5.71 m) • Wingspan: 20 ft 0 in (6.10 m) • Height: 6 ft 7⅓ in (2.02 m) • Wing area: 125 ft² (11.6 m²) • Empty weight: 1,150 lb (521 kg) • Max takeoff weight: 1,625 lb (737 kg) • Powerplant: 1× Textron Lycoming AEIO-540-D4A5 flat-six air cooled piston engine, 260 hp (194 kW) Performance • Max speed: 182 knots (210 mph, 338 km/h) • Cruise speed: 152 knots (175 mph, 282 km/h) (max cruise) • Stall speed: 52 knots (60 mph, 97 km/h) • Range: 277 NM (319 mi, 513 km) • Service ceiling: 21,000 ft (6,400 m)
• Rate of climb: 2,700 ft/min (13.7 m/s) • Wing loading: 13.0 lb/ft² (63.6 kg/m²) • Power/mass: 0.16 hp/lb (0.26 kW/
The team
Glen Warden: Team Leader
Former fighter pilot of the South African Airforce,Glen Warden is the team leader of the team.He has flown the Aermacchi MB326, Mirage and Cheetah jet aircraft, and remains active in the South African Air Force Museum Flight, displaying the Mirage CZ III , the Vampire T11 and the T6 Harvard. He also spent time as an exchange pilot with the Chilean Air Force flying Mirage 50’s, F-5 E Tigers and A-37 Dragonfly. He is also a civilian jet instructor and display authorisation examiner on the L-29 Delfin, L-39 Albatros, BAC Strikemaster, and T-2 Buckeye.
Dennis Spence: Team Owner and Reserve Leader
Dennis Spence the team owner,an ex SAA A340 senior Captain, with in excess of 26000 flying hours, of which over 3500+ is on the Pitts Special alone. He has been the owner and operator of the Team since 1985, and represented South Africa in the first Advanced World aerobatic championships in 1995, obtaining South African National colours.
Johan Von Solms: Wingman
A South African Airways Captain, with over 16500 flying hours. He served in the South African Air Force as a fighter Pilot flying the Aeromacchi MB326(Impala) and the Cheetah. He was the 8 Squadron Impala display pilot in 1993 and a 2 Squadron Cheetah display pilot during 1995 and 1996. My father was best mates with David Stead. As a kid growing up near Mooi River on a dairy farm, David would lead simulated attacks on our farm using Harvards and later Impalas from Durban. It sparked a dream that none of my other talents could detach and I thus pursued a flying career that I am very grateful for and proud of.
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Nigel Hopkins: Wingman
Nigel Hopkins Is a training Captain at South African Airways on the Airbus A320, he has flown all types of aerobatic aircraft and warbirds including the T28 Trojan and L29 Delphin.He is alsp part of the Team Extreme team.
Paul Coetser:Soloist
Paul Coetser is a SAA Cargo 737 pilot,he is also a former 85 Combat Flying School MB326 Impala display pilot and SAAF Instructor. He has flown the Pitts,Piper Saratoga, MB326 Impala and Pilatus PC7MKII.
Jason Beamish: Reserve Soloist
Jason Beamish is a Aircraft Engineer at Absolute Aviation based at Lanseria Airport. His father Larry Beamish taught him to fly at a young age.He has been surronded by avaition his whole life,he has also flown AN2s,Piper Cub,KingAirs,Pc12s and Caravans and much more.His Total Flying hours: 2,700+ hrs.He is also part of Team Extreme Airshows and a reserve dispaly pilot on the AN2 ‘Little Annie’.
The team will be flying the SAAF Museum Airshow on the 5th May 2018,and the team also has a L29 Delphin that will also be flying at the SAAF Museum Airshow.
Aircraft Marshalling
Aircraft Marshaller
A person trained to direct by visual or other means the movement of aircraft on the ground, into and out of landing, parking or hovering points. Also called aircraft guide.
Marshalling is one-on-one visual communication and a part of aircraft ground handling. It may be as an alternative to, or additional to, radio communications between the aircraft and air traffic control. The usual equipment of a marshaller is a reflecting safety vest, a helmet with acoustic earmuffs, and gloves or marshalling wands–handheld illuminated beacons.
At airports, the marshaller signals the pilot to keep turning, slow down, stop, and shut down engines, leading the aircraft to its parking stand or to the runway. Sometimes, the marshaller indicates directions to the pilot by driving a “Follow-Me” car (usually a yellow van or pick-up truck with a checkerboard pattern) prior to disembarking and resuming signalling, though this is not an industry standard.
At busier and better equipped airports, marshallers are replaced on some stands with a Visual Docking Guidance System (VDGS), of which there are many types.
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The role of the Aircraft Marshaller is an important element of managing the aircraft in the vicinity of the ramp. The aircraft Marshaller provides the essential visual link to assist the flight crew in positioning the aircraft correctly.
The responsibility for the safe operation of the aircraft on the ground rests with the flight crew, however the ground crew including Marshaller’s have a duty of care to provide the flight crew with the correct guidance information.
In addition to ensure that the possibility of accidental damage is mitigated with the use of best practice behaviour at all times.
The usual equipment of a Marshaller is a reflecting safety vest, a helmet with acoustic earmuffs, and gloves or marshalling wands, handheld illuminated beacons.
*This article is based on international standards and may differ slightly from hose used in Southern Africa
Aircraft Marshalling
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Helicopter Marshalling
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aircraft_marshalling
https://sassofia.com/course/aircraft-ramp-safety-and-basic-marshalling-theory-practical-course-1-day/
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Team Xtreme Airshows
Team Xtreme Airshows
With their high energy aerobatic manvureves, Team Xtreme is surly a display to watch at airshows, Led by SAA Captain Nigel Hopkins and South African World Aerobatic champion,the team is internationally renowned for displaying in China. Team Xtreme Airshows is a Formation Aerobatic Team flown by South African aerobatic pilots. The Team was started in 2010 by Mark Hensman & Nigel Hopkins flying two MX2 aerobatic aircraft in a high-energy duo display. Click here to goto the Team’s website
The team fly high performance aerobatic aircraft ranging from the Walter Extra 330SC and the Extreme Air XA42 Sbach,both aircraft are built in Germany. Team Extreme is a four ship Aerobatic Team,the pilots perform manures which includes formation & freestyle aerobatics, cross-over passes, synchronized maneuvers and solo gyroscopics.
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The team members often take part in regional and international aerobatic competitions and are regular performers on the airshow circuit, if they arent flying aerobatic aircraft at an airshow.They flying warbirds or jet airliners, each member having different flying experience.Each pilot is an active member of the Sport Aerobatic Club of South Africa and holds an Advanced or Unlimited Aerobatic Rating in addition to the required Display Ratings. The pilots have a combined experience of 47,700 flight hours.
This year already the team has displayed at the FAW Ermelo Airshow in Mpumalanga. Next show on the cards is the SAAF Museum Airshow at Airforce Base Swartkops in Pretoria.The Pretoria airshows are always big and large crowds gather to see some of South Africa’s best pilots perform both civil and military.
The Aerobatic Team has performed nearly 100 displays in South Africa, Southern Africa and China since 2010, Team Xtreme is voted in the top 3 civilian Aerobatic Teams at the inaugural Formation Aerobatic Challenge (FAC 2017) held in Zhengzhou, China.
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Pilots
Nigel Hopkins#1 (Leader)
Is a training Captain at South African Airways on the Airbus A320,he has flown all types of aerobatic aircraft and warbirds including the T28 Trojan and L29 Delphin.
Total Flying hours: 18,500+ hrs
Mark Sampson#2 (RH Wingman)
Mark is a Captain on Boeing 747s at Cathy Pacific,he is an Ex South African Airforce Pilot.His total Flying hours: 11,500 hrs
Jason Beamish#3 (LH Wingman)
Jason Beamish is a Aircraft Engineer at Absolute Aviation based at Lanseria Airport.His father Larry Beamish taught him to fly at a young age.He has been surronded by avaition his whole life,he has also flown AN2s,Piper Cub,KingAirs,Pc12s and Caravans and much more.His Total Flying hours: 2,700+ hrs
Mark Hensman #4 (Box & Solo)
Is the Team Manager & Aircraft Technician,he was recently Nigel Lambs Aircraft Technician on the Red Bull Air Race Series.He also has a helicopter PPL. His Total Flying hours: 15,500+ hrs.
