Author Archives: Flippie Van Emmenis
May Your Wishes Come True
The Walt Disney Company Africa and LIFT unveiled a co-branded celebratory aircraft livery to kick-off Disney’s biggest festive campaign to date in South Africa, “May Your Wishes Come True”.
The livery features some of the most iconic and memorable characters from Disney, MARVEL and Star WarsTM, including: Disney’s Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Moana, Black Panther, GroguTM, Elsa, Spidey. A brand new character also makes an appearance, Asha, from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ upcoming “Wish”, which releases in cinemas nationwide from 22 November. The Disney inspired plane (tail number ZS-GAS) will appear in South African skies and at airports from 20 October and service routes between Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban.
On board, customers can expect special Disney and LIFT surprises, as well as kiddies activity packs to make flying with little ones a breeze during the busy holiday season, with giveaways and more treats. The excitement won’t stop there, because LIFT has additional surprises between 1 and 12 December for lucky travelers on select flights, as South Africans get ready for the festive season.
Fans and travellers who spot or travel on the Disney-inspired Plane can share their pics on social media, using the hashtag #DisneyandLIFT and tagging @DisneyAfrica and @LIFT__SA.
Says Christine Service, Senior Vice President and General Manager of The Walt Disney Company Africa: “To mark our 100th year anniversary (16 October 2023), The Walt Disney Company is celebrating the fans and storytellers who have sparked the joy and magic that embodies Disney over the last century. We hope that this exciting and unique collaboration with LIFT will bring delight to travellers of all ages this holiday season as we mark this milestone anniversary.”
Says Luke Roberts, General Manager, Consumer Products, Games and Publishing, The Walt Disney Company Africa; “Rolling out in stores nationwide from November, “May Your Wishes Come True” is Disney’s biggest retail campaign to date. With the holiday season approaching and “Wish” releasing in cinemas nationwide from 24 November, we are inspired by the universal truth of wishing to be together at this special time. This collaboration with LIFT truly celebrates this togetherness with families and fans.”
Says Jonathan Ayache, CEO of LIFT.: “As a beloved family brand, Disney is a perfect fit for LIFT. With our new livery, together we celebrate the love, magic and family togetherness that signals the festive season. We’re proud to link arms with Disney, through this collaboration, our hope is to ignite a sense of fun, wonder and excitement for the whole family during the upcoming season of school holidays and family celebrations.”
Customers can visit www.lift.co.za to book flights and stand a chance of flying on the #DisneyandLIFT aircraft. Travellers aboard the airline will continue to enjoy all the perks LIFT has to offer including complimentary snacks, coffee from vida e caffè and extra-friendly service from the stylish cabin crew. LIFT has flexible flight changes with unlimited penalty-free changes and no cancellation fees up to 24 hours before departure.
From November, Disney’s “May Your Wishes Come True” will offer the perfect opportunity to stock up on those gifts for every member of the family – from stocking fillers, toys, apparel, books and so much more – featuring the very latest and greatest from Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars. With much more to share, this festive season is set to be an unforgettable one as we wish together for the holidays.
About LIFT:
LIFT is operated by Global Aviation Operations (Pty) LTD trading as LIFT. LIFT flights currently operate between Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban. Global Aviation Operations has been a provider of ACMI (aircraft, crew, maintenance and insurance) services to airlines, locally and internationally since 2001 and is the largest dedicated ACMI specialist in South and Sub-Saharan Africa.
LIFT operates a fleet of Airbus A320 Aircraft, state-of-the-art 4th generation with fly-by-wire control systems, Flight Envelope safety protection and 3B Auto-land certification that allows for safe landings in poor visibility conditions.
About The Walt Disney Company EMEA:
The Walt Disney Company has been in Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) for over 80 years and employs thousands across the region. Between Disneyland Paris and its other iconic brands, including Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, 20th Century Studios and ESPN, The Walt Disney Company EMEA entertains, informs and inspires millions of consumers in more than 130 countries through the power of unparalleled storytelling. Disney+, the company’s direct-to-consumer streaming service, is currently available in 60 markets across EMEA.
About Disney Parks, Experiences and Products:
Disney Parks, Experiences and Products brings the magic of The Walt Disney Company’s powerful brands and franchises—including Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, ESPN, 20th Century Fox and National Geographic—into the daily lives of families and fans around the world to create magical memories that last a lifetime. When Walt Disney opened Disneyland in Anaheim, California, on July 17, 1955, he created a unique destination built around storytelling and immersive experiences, ushering in a new era of family entertainment. More than 65 years later, Disney has grown into one of the world’s leading providers of family travel and leisure experiences, with iconic businesses including six resort destinations with 12 theme parks and 52 resorts in the United States, Europe, and Asia; a top-rated cruise line with four ships and plans for three more; a luxurious family beach resort in Hawai‘i; a popular vacation ownership program; and an award-winning guided family adventure business. Disney’s global consumer products operations include the world’s leading licensing business; the world’s largest children’s publishing brands; one of the world’s largest licensors of games across all platforms; Disney store locations around the world; and the shopDisney e-commerce platform.
About the Aircraft used – AIRBUS A320 – MSN 76 – ZS-GAS
| Serial number | 76 |
| Type | 320-231 |
| First flight date | 25/09/1989 |
| Test registration | F-WWIS |
| Plane age | 34.1 years |
| Seat configuration | Unknown |
| Hex code | 008FFB |
| Engines | 2 x IAE V2500-A1 |
| Status | Active |
Click on a photo below to enlarge
Photos by Aviation Central and ZCMC Media
TAAG ANGOLA AIRLINES TO RENEW FLEET WITH BOEING 787 DREAMLINERS
PRESS RELEASE
TAAG ANGOLA AIRLINES TO RENEW FLEET WITH BOEING 787 DREAMLINERS
– Angola’s national airline adds four 787 Dreamliners to fleet
– Airline modernises its fleet with first order of the popular 787
Luanda, October 10, 2023: TAAG Angola Airlines and Boeing [NYSE: BA] announced today that TAAG is adding the highly fuel-efficient 787 Dreamliner to its fleet with an order for four of the wide-body jets.
“Our goal is to work with the best manufacturers in the world towards a multi-type fleet, in order to ensure we have the appropriate aeroplanes for each flight typology, namely our intercontinental connections,” said Eduardo Fairen, CEO of TAAG Angola Airlines. “The 787 option suits our intent for modern, size-wise and efficient equipment able to progressively replace our current wide-body fleet and provide our customers with an improved flight experience.”
“The 787 Dreamliner will enable TAAG Angola Airlines to open new routes and expand their international network,” said Anbessie Yitbarek, Boeing vice president, Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa. “The Dreamliner’s market-leading efficiency and passenger comfort will advance the carrier’s fleet modernisation plans.”
TAAG Angola Airlines currently flies five 777-300ER (Extended Range) jets, three 777-200ERs and seven 737-700s to 12 destinations across Africa, Europe, South America and China.
Boeing’s Commercial Market Outlook for Africa projects that the continent will need 1,025 aeroplanes over the next two decades. Overall African air traffic growth is forecast at 7.4%, the third highest among global regions and above the global average growth of 6.1%.
Since revenue service began in 2011, the 787 family has launched more than 370 new nonstop routes around the world. The 787 Dreamliner reduces fuel use and emissions by 25% compared to the aeroplanes it replaces. Passengers enjoy a better experience with the largest windows of any jet, air that is more humid and pressurised at a lower cabin altitude for greater comfort, large overhead bins, soothing LED lighting, and technology that senses and counters turbulence for a smoother ride.
TAAG Angola Arlines, Luanda, October 10, 2023.
Communication and Press Department
+244 921 320 223
About TAAG
TAAG Angola Airlines was founded in 1938 and is based in Luanda, Angola´s capital city. For more than 80 years, TAAG has connected Angolans with its key domestic and international markets. TAAG is the leading airline in the country and is recognised worldwide for its strong high-yield market, having grown its current network to 12 domestic and 13 international destinations. In addition to passenger transport, its fleet allows for air cargo services, which have become essential for Angola´s growth and development. TAAG is a company that prides itself on a strong track record of service and performance excellence.
About Boeing
As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures, and services commercial aeroplanes, defence products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing’s diverse team is committed to innovating for the future, leading with sustainability and cultivating a culture based on the company’s core values of safety, quality and integrity. Join our team and find your purpose at boeing.com/careers.
The Heidelberg Great Train Race 2023
By Jessica Bezuidenhout
This year’s Train Race was held on Saturday the 30th of September. The weather started off being cool and breezy. Arriving at dawn we were treated to a group of paragliding flyers who took advantage of the open airspace to enjoy an early dawn flight over the train waiting to enter the station. Rovos Rail had a doubleheader for the first time this year. Leading was the locomotive “Tiffany”. A 130-year-old Grand Dame is still doing her stuff. Behind her was “Shaun”. The train was welcomed into the station with numerous vintage vehicles led by a Bentley. After an opportunity for photos, they went on a heritage tour through the town and returned to the airfield where the day’s activities continued. For the hungry and thirsty there were food and drink stalls, live entertainment with a band, a miniature running steam train for the kids (big and small), and the Rolls Royce griffon showcased its awesome power. A race track provided endless entertainment with vintage motorcycles doing rounds with each other. Numerous small aircraft arrived during the morning. A few regulars at aviation events were seen as well such as the Classic Flying Collection (static display), the Flying Lions, and The Goodyear Eagles who as usual put on stunning displays wowing a full crowd.
Giving “flips” were Henley Air in their Bell 407 and much beloved Flippie Vermeulen in his Beech 18. A unique experience to be sure.
A pleasant day was had by all with a few firsts that created a day filled with good things by those who have a love and passion for all things old – albeit trains, planes, and cars.
Click in the photos below to view large-size
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.
The Arrivals and Training week for the 22nd World Rally Flying Championships
The Arrivals and Training week for the 22nd World Rally Flying Championships by Rob Jonkers (photos Rob Jonkers & others)
The 22nd World Rally Flying Championships has been a protracted postponed event after having planned to take place in 2020 in Stellenbosch with the 2nd attempt in 2021, and then eventually the third attempt in 2022 but this time in Brits in the height of the summer rainy season, and knowing full well that weather may be a factor here in the North-West area, however, expected would normally have been afternoon thundershowers, and daily schedules were such that flying would be avoided in the afternoon.
In any event, with the third season of La-Nina affecting our weather, and for a third time in 2022 where SAPFA has held events on a weekend where “cut-off” low-pressure cycles over the centre of SA were present, we had to deal with rain and more rain in the first week earmarked as validation & training week, where hired aircraft would arrive (14 of them) with each international crew needing a check ride, logbook endorsement, then a foreign operators certificate. Obtaining the 14 aircraft from 6 different operators was no small feat, planning for sourcing them had already started at the beginning of 2022, and between Ron Stirk and Martin Meyer we were eventually able to get contracts in place for all of them, and many thanks go out to Fly Adventure, Sky Time (C172 Diesels), Lanseria Flight Centre, Springbok, Vulcan, Don Lucas for the use of their aircraft.
Having started setting up on the weekend of the 5th November there were 2 good days, but as Monday came around 2 very bad weather days prevented aircraft being flown to Brits, with international crews waiting their arrival and good weather. Eventually, Wednesday and Thursday were good and all the aircraft arrived with check rides done, and some of the first teams were able to start flying their practice routes taking advantage of the 2 good weather days. Many thanks are extended to the CAA’s PEL department headed by Johan Niemand, with Mikhal Rosenberg carrying out the validation certificates which had turnaround times of less than an hour, giving each international crew the ability to start flying very quickly after their check rides.
Friday saw the weather close in again, with some gaps to allow flights, most were able to practice their landings while the weather was dodgy further out. With Brits being around 3800 ft in altitude, everybody had to either fly higher powered C150’s or C172s to deal with the high Density Altitude conditions, so the handling and power management being significantly different to the European competitions where most occur close to sea level areas – giving these teams the additional challenge of dealing with heavier and more sluggish response. By Saturday evening the end of the Practice week was declared and all teams had had the opportunity to hone their rally skills and familiarize with the landscape of the Brits area which is quite varied, from the northern bushveld to the scenic hills and valleys of the Magaliesberg.
Sunday saw the final preparations of the airfield, and with water still seeping through the ground from the adjacent hills, left much of the prepared parking and taxi-ways waterlogged, where alternative parking and taxi plans had to be put in place, which still saw feasibility of managing the movement after papers handout to be ok, albeit needing to use Runway 20 for take-off, but with a calm weather outlook for the week from Tuesday, would be operationally suitable.
For the morning of Sunday, two briefings were held, first the briefing for Officials which was given by both the Competition Director Rob Jonkers and the Chief Judge Ralf Grunwald (Germany), this to ensure we had sufficient resources and that everybody was briefed on their expected functions, thereafter at 11 am was the Official competitor briefing to explain the expected daily schedule and logistics of the event. After this the Opening Ceremony would occur, and at this point, everybody saw their readiness as being complete to hold the championship. To be continued……… (Read here)
Click on the photos below to enlarge
The 22 nd World Rally Flying Championship
The 22nd World Rally Flying Championships by Rob Jonkers (photos Rob Jonkers & others)
Also, read The Arrivals and Training week for the 22nd World Rally Flying Championships
At last we had arrived at the competition week, after months of planning after Sunday the 13th of November dawned everything was in place to have the event start. After the morning briefings were concluded, preparation for the opening ceremony was carried out with podiums, sound and everybody in their National dress. Karl Jensen was the MC for the Opening ceremony, which started promptly at 3 PM with a Parade of Nations, each country with its National flag and country signboard walked past the clubhouse to gather around the podium, and as they walked past their National Anthem was played.
Once this was concluded, we had the Absolute Extras do a display as Nigel & Jason brought their aircraft over from the Coves earlier, they were able to give a stunning display against a backdrop of a passing storm cell, giving the photographers a good opportunity to get some amazing footage. Nigel and Jason are thanked for being able to give the opening ceremony the appropriate opening for such a prestigious event. It was also planned that the Puma Flying Lions would do an opening display, but the threatening weather all around us prevented them from getting through from Rand Airport.
It was fortunate that while the Opening Ceremony was underway between 3 – 4 PM the rain stayed away, as after the display the formality of the Opening continued, first with the chairman of the Brits Flying Club Lohan Otto giving a speech, then onto Rob Jonkers the Competition Director giving thanks to all the people involved in getting us to the point where we could start. Thereafter Hans Schwebel as the President of the General Aviation Commission (GAC) of the FAI declared the event open by raising the FAI flag. Cocktail snacks and drink was then enjoyed by all, and in the meantime, rain descended on the Airfield again.
The competition week then started out on Monday, when the weather was clearing up, although windy with low clouds, it was decided to fly the bad weather route – Granite for the day. All the routes were named after minerals in keeping with the theme of the area being rich in minerals. The only way the departure sequence would work was to use runway 20, and at least for Monday, the wind was southerly all day. A measured landing would be at Brits, in this case also on runway 20, where most of the previous week the prevailing wing was northerly. After day 1 in the first place was Michal Wieczorek from Poland and in 2nd place was Nigel Hopkins.
The rest of the week had good weather predicted with increasing temperatures, and for day two, the Chrome route was flown, with a landing again at home base. After day 2 Nigel Hopkins took the lead, with Marek Kachaniak from Poland in 2nd, and Michal Wieczorek dropped to 3rd place. Day 3 the route was Copper, this route was flown up north with an intermediate landing to take place at Kokoriba, the idea of an away landing was to challenge crews to land in unfamiliar territory. The runway there was imminently suitable to carry out a touch-and-go in farm strip conditions, some found it difficult and others were able to bingo the landings. Unfortunately due to a rule technicality, the landings had to be excluded, much to the chagrin of some competitors who had done well there. After day 3, the standings were still with Nigel in the lead with 604 points and Michal Wieczorek in 2nd place with 753 points. On day 4 the route was Gold, this route was flown to the west in the Rustenburg area with another away landing planned, but as the rule technicality could not be fixed for the Silver Creek runway, only a runway inspection could be flown, and a home landing at Brits was measured. Day 4’s results had Krzysztof Wieczorek in 1st place with Nigel having dropped to 8th.
After all 4 days of flights, other than a few aircraft snags, all competitors could fly all the routes, we were well supported by the aircraft owners to sort out snags and issues. Thursday afternoon & evening is traditionally International day with every country taking part to bring out their specialty food and drink to sample and enjoy. Germany brought Jägermeisters, the Norwegians brought their famous Norwegian salmon, the French their French wines, and the South Africans with boerewors and melktertjies….
Friday was set out as a reserve weather day and was fortunately not required, some teams took further scenic flights and others went to visit local game parks. The prize giving Ceremony was to be held at Fatherland Estate which is around 5km from the Brits airfield – which was scheduled for 7 PM. Everybody started to gather at the venue from 6.30 and David le Roux was the MC for the evening called everybody to take their seats at 7h30 for starters.
The proceedings for the evening commenced, first with Rob Jonkers giving a speech of thanks to everybody involved in making the event successful, and despite the challenges, we were able to pull this significant event off. For sure the key to making this event happen was securing Aircraft, which is much more than would be the case in Europe, here only the South Africans had their own aircraft, we had to cater for 28 teams, 14 aircraft at the end of the day. Between Martin Meyer & Ron Stirk they managed to secure these aircraft for the best part of 2022 and gave congratulations on the great work done to negotiate with the owners to rent them.
All the Officials were called up to the stage to have their participation certificates handed over, after giving thanks for their support during the event, as it takes many functions to make this level of event happen successfully.
After this the Chief Judge took over with the prize giving, first being the youngest pilot category, this going to the Czech team of Lukas Behounek & Krystof Bobek, then the Landings category going to the Polish Team of Krzysztof Wieczorek & Kamil Wieczorek. Then the main category of Individual team results with 1st place going the Polish Team of Krzysztof Wieczorek & Kamil Wieczorek, in 2nd place Michal Wieczorek & Marcin Kwiatosz, and in third place South African team of Nigel Hopkins & Mary de Klerk, the first podium finish for the South Africans since 2003. Next was the Team Trophy which went to Poland in 1st place, Czech Republic in 2nd place and France in 3rd place. The Air BP best in navigation and observation trophy went to the Polish Team of Krzysztof Wieczorek & Kamil Wieczorek
After the prize giving the GAC President Hans Schwebel officially closed the event and the FAI flag was lowered, folded where the Competition Director Rob Jonkers handed it over to Phillipe Muller of France who is the appointed Competition Director for the 23rd WRFC to be held in Macon France in 2023.
With that the 22nd WRFC was closed and guests could enjoy the main course for the evening.
There are so many thanks to be given, from all the Officials from far and wide that is the engine room of such a competition, everybody in their various roles were well versed in what they needed to do and did so very well, and to get to the end of competition having been concluded with safe flights throughout.
A big thanks to Thanks to Lohan Otto and the BFC team for preparing the airfield and having upgraded the clubhouse as you see today.
Thanks to all the SAPFA & BFC committee members that for months of planning meetings got this event fully realised.
Thanks to the CAA PEL department carrying out licence validations, also the GA department, Piet Fourie & Mothiba Kanyane on the Special Air Event application management and their daily support for the event over the last week.
Thanks to the media for their support and attendance, they always support our Recreational Aviation
Thanks to the sponsors, Absolute Aviation, DJA Aviation Insurance, Bill Harrop’s Balloons, Brits Auto, Century Avionics, Wings and Tracks, Puma Fuel, and various local hotels & food establishments.
Am sure this event will come around to South Africa sometime in the future again, and that new teams will experience the best of South Africa. I wish all of you safe skies where ever you fly, and am sure we’ll see you again soon at the next events.
Click on the photos below to enlarge
ANGLO AMERICAN PLATINUM DONATES BAT HAWK LIGHT AIRCRAFT TO ASSIST CONSERVATION WORK AT KRUGER NATIONAL PARK
Aviation Central recently received an invitation to attend a handover ceremony of four Bat Hawk aircraft to the South African National Parks. (SANParks)
Anglo American Platinum donated four Bat Hawk surveillance aircraft to South African National Parks (SANParks) to aid in their surveillance, conservation, and anti-poaching efforts. The sponsorship agreement of the aircraft is valued at over R3.8 million.
The donation is in line with the healthy environment pillar of the organization’s sustainable mine plan, which is aimed at maintaining a healthy environment by creating waterless, carbon-neutral operations as well as delivering positive biodiversity outcomes.
The Kruger National Park (KNP), which spans over 2 million hectares of land and is divided into 22 sections, continues to face several operational challenges linked to animal poaching, the poisoning of animals as well as snaring. The four Bat Hawk aircraft, which are proudly assembled in South Africa, are an affordable and safe alternative to helicopters and will go a long way in assisting with the Kruger’s conservation and anti-poaching efforts. Other benefits of the aircraft include its great visibility during adverse weather conditions and its light undercarriage which can easily maneuver through porous terrain.
Speaking at the handover event of the aircraft, Anglo American Platinum’s executive head of projects Prakashim Moodliar said, “Our donation of the Bat Hawk aircraft presents an important step for biodiversity and conservation at the Kruger National Park. As an organization that is committed to re-imagining mining to improve people’s lives, Anglo American Platinum has always been clear that we cannot do this work alone, and that building a safer, cleaner, and more sustainable future has to be founded on the collaboration and knowledge sharing that comes from partnering with likeminded organizations.”
Barbara Creecy, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment said: “Anglo Platinum joins several international and local companies and individuals who work with SANParks to protect our natural world and our threatened species. These Ultra-Light aircraft will assist us in carrying out aerial patrols as well as monitoring and effectively managing the environment. As custodians of our fauna and flora, SANParks has limited resources at its disposal. It is therefore important to form partnerships to look after our country’s rich and varied biodiversity”.
Also, read SANParks AIR SERVICES GETS FUEL BOOST FROM TotalEnergies
Questions and Answers by Aviation Central to SANParks
Q: Who donated the Aircraft?
Anglo American Platinum
Q: What is the value of the 4 aircraft?
A: R3 million, eight hundred thousand ZAR
Q: Will additional rangers receive pilot training or will additionally be employed?
A: There will be training for current Section Rangers
Q: Where will the Bat Hawks be stationed (Park and Camps)
A: Skukuza , Malelane, Letaba and Shingwedzi
Q: How will the Bat Hawks be used?
A: Law enforcement, conservation, and monitoring
Q: We know a Bat-hawk has low operating costs compared to other aircraft, But what is the estimated operating cost per hour?
A: Thousand Rands compared to ten thousand for the helicopter
Q: What is SANParks total Air fleet consist of?
A: Two fixed-wing four-seater Cessna, three Airbus Squirrels, and four Bat Hawk_
Q:. Does SANParks receive support from the South African Air Force or SAPS airwing?
A: We do receive support upon request, and it depends on availability and budget.
Q: The donated fuel from TotalEnergies just a few weeks ago, van the fuel also be used for the Bat Hawks?
A: The Anglo Platinum donation comes with maintenance and fuel support to the tune of Five Million Rands
Q: Why bat hawk vs other aircraft (besides running costs)
A: They are durable and technically suited for the KNP terrain.
Q: What type of missions will they be used to carry out (is it just surveillance, animal counting, etc) A: All conservation-related work
Q: What tasks do the Airwing / Fixed and Rotor wing used for besides poaching?
A: Census support, monitoring of rivers, and general maintenance of the ecosystem.
Q: Project Skywards, a Fundraising project, needs R19m and the SANParks website only indicates that R79 200 has been donated, is this status correct?
A: It will be updated after the Anglo Platinum donation and the Total Energies.
Registration Information on the four donated Aircraft
ZU-IWV BAT HAWK R 0097
ZU-IWX BAT HAWK R 0102
ZU-IXB BAT HAWK R 0094
ZU-IXD BAT HAWK R 0103
ABOUT AND PERFORMANCE OF THE BAT HAWK
The Bat Hawk is proudly designed and built in Mbombela (Nelspruit), South Africa
The performance of the Bat Hawk in its multiple options has been widely acclaimed as nothing short of sensational.
In the hands of a learner, it remains perfectly balanced for fingertip control and hands-off flight but pushed to the maximum by an experienced pilot the maneuverability is breath-taking.
There is a big demand for this aircraft in surveillance and conservation industries and with the Bat Hawk’s propeller up and out of the way it reduces the risk of damage by grass, sticks, stones, and sand. Making it a true “Bush Plane”.
The Bat Hawk’s cockpit is very similar to that of a helicopter with excellent forward visibility as well as to both sides.
The Bat Hawk is a proudly South African “Light Sport Aircraft” designed and built for tough African conditions.
The aircraft is supplied as a complete ready to fly and complies with the ASTM2245-12c Build Standard rules and regulations as well as South African Civil Aviation Type Approval.
It features a strut-braced high wing, two seats in a side-by-side configuration open cockpit, fixed tricycle landing gear, and a single Rotax engine in tractor configuration.
As a conventional 3-axis light sport aircraft, the Bat Hawk does not rely on pilot weight shift to affect control. Twin seats are positioned side-by-side for full dual control and both crew members are well protected from the weather by an aerodynamic fiberglass pod and large wrap-around windshield.
The Bat Hawk has been designed and developed in South Africa primarily for surveillance and conservation.
Dimensions of the Bat Hawk
Overall length – nose to rudder TE 18.19 feet (5.544m)
Length – propeller plane to rudder TE 17.40 feet (5.304m)
Undercarriage wheel track 5.42 feet (1.652m)
Main wheel size 8.00 x 6.ins
Nose wheel size 4.00 x 4.ins
Typical empty weight–standard equipment 573.2 lbs (260 kg)
Maximum fuel 123.0 lbs (56 kg)
Maximum weight all-up weight 1204.2 lbs (540 kg)
Minimum solo crew weight 163 lbs (74 kg)
Average dual crew weight 396.8 lbs (180 kg)
Take-off weight with full fuel/average crew 1100.0lb (499 kg)
BAT HAWK 100 H.P. 4 CYLINDER 4 STROKE
Cruise Speed: 70 knots
Stall Speed: 36 knots
Vne: 92 knots
Length: 6,00m
Wingspan: 9,50m
South African National Parks and/or wildlife conversation need all the help they can get, if you think you can assist please use the contact information below…
Nthabiseng Moeletsi
General Manager: Fundraising
Contact number: +27 12 426 5034
Lebogang Phetlha
Email: Lebogang.phetlha@sanparks.org
To see other fundraising projects by South African National Parks go to https://www.sanparks.org/fundraising/
Photos by Swanie Swanepoel and Anglo American Platinum
See a short handover video
Video by Anglo American Platinum
Bell Completes U.S. MARINE CORPS Ah-1Z Program of Record
Bell Completes U.S. MARINE CORPS Ah-1Z Program of Record
Completes United States Military program of record for H-1 Helicopters
A U.S. Marine Corps AH-1Z Viper with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 469 fires at a target during Resolute Dragon 22 at Yausubetsu Maneuver Area, Hokkaido, Japan, Oct. 6, 2022. Resolute Dragon 22 is an annual bilateral exercise designed to strengthen the defensive capabilities of the U.S.-Japan Alliance by exercising integrated command and control, targeting, combined arms, and maneuver across multiple domains. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Lorenzo Ducato)
Middle East (Nov. 03, 2022) – In a ceremony at the Amarillo Assembly Center, Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, celebrated the delivery of the 189th AH-1Z Viper to the U.S. Marine Corps, completing the Program of Record (POR) for the latest version of the storied H-1 platform. Bell completed the UH-1Y POR of 160 aircraft in 2018 bringing the combined H-1 POR to 349 aircraft.
“The first production lot of US Marine Corps H-1s was ordered in 1962, and they changed the way Marines fight today,” said Mike Deslatte, Bell H-1 vice president and program director. “Completing the AH-1Z and UH-1Y deliveries to the US Marine Corps adds one more chapter to the legacy of the H-1 platform.”
Bell has been producing H-1s for the U.S. military since 1959. Bell originally designed the H-1 for the U.S. Army with the iconic “Huey.” In 1966 Bell created the AH-1 Cobra as the first dedicated gunship. In 1970, the Bell UH-1N brought twin engine capabilities to more than 28 countries, and in 1984 the AH-1W provided the U.S. Marine Corps increased attack helicopter capability.
The current generation AH-1Z Viper and UH-1Y Venom are the most agile, mobile, and survivable combination of aircraft used by the Department of Defense. The 85% common platforms are the only two aircraft that share so much commonality, providing the Marines with logistical agility and reduced operating costs. The AH-1Z achieved initial operating capacity in February 2011 and the UH-1Y achieved initial operating capacity in August 2008. The first combined Viper/Venom deployment with a Marine Expeditionary Unit occurred in 2009.
“H-1s are key to the 2022 Marine Corps Aviation Plan,” said Col. Vasillios Pappas, Light/Attack Helicopters program manager (PMA-276). “With the US program of record now complete, the Marines have the flexibility to manage and deploy the helicopters based on current and future mission requirements as established at the start of the program.”
The H-1 production line is still active in support of foreign military sales to approved U.S. allies. Bell continues to produce AH-1Z Vipers for the Kingdom of Bahrain and will manufacture eight UH-1Ys and four AH-1Zs for the Czech Republic in 2023.
Since the first delivery of the AH-1Zs and UH-1Ys to the U.S. Marines, the H-1 mixed fleet has accumulated more than 450,000 flight hours through a full spectrum of military operations. Bell will continue to support the U.S. H-1s with lethality, survivability, and reliability upgrades through a long-term modernization plan that helps ensure the aircraft keep an overwhelming tactical advantage for generations.
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About Bell
Thinking above and beyond is what we do. For more than 85 years, we’ve been reimagining the experience of flight – and where it can take us.
We are pioneers. We were the first to break the sound barrier and to certify a commercial helicopter. We were aboard NASA’s first lunar mission and brought advanced tiltrotor systems to market. Today, we’re defining the future of advanced air mobility.
Headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas – as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Textron Inc., – we have strategic locations around the globe. And with nearly one quarter of our workforce having served, helping our military achieve their missions is a passion of ours.
Above all, our breakthrough innovations deliver exceptional experiences to our customers. Efficiently. Reliably. And always, with safety at the forefront.
About Textron Inc.
Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell, Cessna, Beechcraft, Hawker, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Arctic Cat, Textron Systems, and TRU Simulation + Training. For more information, visit: www.textron.com.
Certain statements in this press release may project revenues or describe strategies, goals, outlook or other non-historical matters; these forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update them. These statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to risk factors related to U.S. government contracts and foreign military sales as described in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Royal Jordanian Air Force Purchase Bell 505
Royal Jordanian Air Force Agrees to Purchase Bell 505s to Boost Training Capabilities
Ten advanced trainers purchased by the RJAF
Aqaba, Jordan (Nov. 1, 2022) Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced the signed agreement for the sale of 10 Bell 505 helicopters to the Royal Jordanian Air Force (RJAF) today at The Special Operations Forces Exhibition & Conference (SOFEX) in Aqaba, Jordan.
The contract includes the delivery of the aircraft with a flight training device and a comprehensive computer-based training package to enable an enhanced approach to basic and advanced rotorcraft flight training at the King Hussein Air College in Mafraq, Jordan.
“It is with profound gratitude to the Royal Jordanian Air Force that we share news of this agreement to purchase the Bell 505s as the new helicopter trainer for the Air Force,” said Patrick Moulay, senior vice president, International Business, Bell.
“We are dedicated to the Armed Forces, the Air Force, and the citizens of Jordan and offer our commitment to ensure the best of service. The Bell 505 will serve alongside the men and women of the Air Force by playing a critical role in ensuring the operational readiness of its cadets,” commented Sameer Rehman, managing director Africa and Middle East, Bell.
The Bell 505 is a popular aircraft for commercial and military customers alike, offering phenomenal power, optimal visibility and high-tech Garmin avionics. The company recently celebrated the 400th Bell 505 delivery since its launch in 2017.
“We look forward to adding the Bell 505 aircraft to our fleet and providing our pilots with one of the best possible aircraft for their training. The addition of 10 new aircraft will enable us to further expand our operations in the country, in turn increasing the capabilities of the Royal Jordanian Air Force,” said Brig. Gen. Mohammad F. Hiyasat, Commander, Royal Jordanian Air Force.
As the most advanced helicopter in its class on the market, details has been considered in the design of the Bell 505, starting with the fully digitally controlled engine, and advanced avionics that dramatically reduce pilot workload and maximize safety in a multitude of operational scenarios.
SOFEX is the world’s leading special operations forces and homeland security exhibition. Currently in its 13th year, the show was established by His Majesty King Abdullah II to provide a platform to present and demonstrate new and innovative equipment and technologies in security operations.
For more information, visit the Bell website.
EAA Sun and Fun 2022 Rally
EAA Sun and Fun 2022 Rally by Rob Jonkers
This year’s EAA Sun and Fun flying event is the 7th in the series of rally events held yearly in support of the EAA, although previous events has followed the Adventure rally format, in recent years some level of accuracy of maintaining track has also been part of the route. This year, it was decided to have a route that was a more formal ANR type (Air Navigation Race). This type of rally is the newest type of rally to be found as part of the FAI events series.
In an ANR, there are only two objectives, the first being on-time at the start and finish gates, each second early or late attracts 3 penalty points. The second objective is to remain inside the corridor which in this case is 1 nm wide any excursion outside the corridor also attracts 3 penalty points per second being outside the corridor. For the Brits ANR it was decided not to measure the start & finish gate timing due to the busy airspace for the day.
The route is normally fairly short at 25 nm, and for the route planned it was to start south east of the field, route over Brits town and find a way through the scenic Crocodile river valley to end north west of the field.
The Route
There were 8 entrant teams, and briefing commenced at 9 am, where the teams after briefing got on with plotting their routes and could fly at their own pace. As they returned, logger downloads commenced and scoring could be done.
Best for the day were the team of Bert v Jaarsveld & Lance Holland flying a Bushcat ZU-FEW, in fact an excellent platform to fly this type of rally being slow enough for observation and being able to keep the turns fairly tight. In second place Bryan Nicolau and Roger Ford in their Bathawk ZU-IGI – another good observation aircraft. In third place Roger Bozolli and Dean Nicolau in the Piper Arrow ZS-KFM.
Teams plotting their routes – discussing their strategies, Caroline Koll, Byron Kirkland, Sean Cronin and Roger Ford
Roger Bozolli and Dean Nicolau with intense concentration
Hilton Wolff and Milan Daniz plotting their route
The Winning Track
Prize giving was held at the evening braai together with the EAA awards, unfortunately the floating trophy was not available, and will be handed over at an appropriate date. This trophy is the Sling (previously The Airplane Factory) Sun and Fun rally trophy awarded annually.
The Google Earth Live track screen, the yellow track being the best of the day, and the purple track with some wandering around the course
The Track shown of Route 2 – a clockwise route