About Aviation Central
For the Love of Flight, with a Unique Southern African Flavour
Founded in September 2009, Aviation Central was created by aviation enthusiasts with a simple vision: to share the passion, excitement and diversity of aviation throughout Southern Africa.
What began as a small community of aviation photographers and enthusiasts has grown into one of Southern Africa's leading independent aviation platforms, providing aviation news, event coverage, photography and information to hundreds of thousands of followers every month.
Our volunteer team travels throughout South Africa and neighbouring countries covering airshows, fly-ins, aviation museums, military exercises, general aviation events and commercial aviation. Every article, photograph and video is created by people who genuinely love aviation.
We believe aviation is more than aircraft—it's about the people, organisations, clubs, volunteers and businesses that keep our industry flying.
Whether you're an airline captain, weekend pilot, aircraft owner, aviation photographer, engineer, model aircraft enthusiast or simply someone who enjoys watching aircraft fly overhead, Aviation Central welcomes you.
To inspire, inform and connect the aviation community by delivering trusted aviation news, exceptional photography and comprehensive event coverage while promoting aviation throughout Southern Africa.
Meet the Team
Flippie van Emmenis
Team Lead | Editor | Website Administrator
Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
Flippie joined Aviation Central in 2011 and has led the day-to-day operation of the platform for many years. He manages the website, social media platforms, advertising partnerships and editorial content while regularly covering aviation events throughout Southern Africa.
Specialties
Lettie van Emmenis
Administration & Events
Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
Lettie provides the administrative support that keeps Aviation Central running smoothly while assisting with events, planning and behind-the-scenes coordination.
Specialties
Trevor Viljoen
Durban Correspondent | Photographer
Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Trevor covers aviation events throughout KwaZulu-Natal and contributes aviation photography and news from the region.
Specialties
Alan Richert
Photographer & Contributor
Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Alan joined the Aviation Central team in 2018 and regularly contributes photography and event coverage.
Specialties
Niel Swart
Photographer & Contributor
Western Cape, South Africa
Niel contributes photography and aviation event coverage from the Western Cape and surrounding regions.
Specialties
Conrad Pretorius
Photographer & Contributor
Eastern Cape, South Africa
Conrad is a valued member of the Aviation Central team, contributing aviation photography and editorial content from aviation events across the Eastern Cape and Southern Africa.
Specialties
Andre Nel
Photographer & Contributor
Gauteng, South Africa
Andre is an experienced aviation photographer and contributor whose passion for aviation is reflected in his exceptional images and event coverage.
Specialties
Jarryd Sinovich
Freelance Photographer & Writer
Gauteng, South Africa
One of Aviation Central's longest-serving contributors, Jarryd is well known throughout the aviation community for his exceptional photography and detailed aviation reporting.
Specialties
Elan Hoffman
Founder
Gauteng, South Africa
Founded Aviation Central in 2009 with the vision of creating a platform where aviation enthusiasts could share their passion for flight.
Our Coverage
Join the Aviation Central Community
Whether you're looking for the latest aviation news, planning your next airshow, promoting an aviation event or showcasing your aviation business, Aviation Central is here to connect the Southern African aviation community.
Thank you for being part of our journey.
For the Love of Flight, with a Unique Southern African Flavour.






