Category Archives: General News and Airshow Reviews
Azul reaches interline agreement with Euroairlines Group for global route distribution
The Brazilian company will be able to sell its routes in the more than 50
BSPs that make up the group’s distribution network
Madrid, September 3, 2024. The Brazilian airline Azul Linhas Aéreas has entrusted the Euroairlines Group with the organization of the distribution of its routes. The agreement signed between the two companies will allow the Brazilian airline to distribute on a wide network in more than 50 countries through the Spanish airline’s IATA Q4-291 plate and connect its more than 160 routes with those of other partners of the Spanish group.
This collaboration will enhance Azul’s presence in the global market and position the Spanish company as a leader in distribution in South America.
Azul currently operates more than 150 domestic routes in Brazil and seven to international destinations, such as Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Lisbon and Paris. It transports more than 28 million passengers per year, operates more than 27,000 flights per month and was chosen by Tripadvisor as the best airline in the world in 2020.
The company was born in Campinas (Brazil) in December 2008, when it launched two flights to Salvador de Bahia and Porto Alegre. It currently offers commercial flights, cargo and shipments and Azul Conecta, a more exclusive service for aircraft of up to 9 passengers that offers rental, training to other airlines in Cessna Grand Caravan and aeronautical consultancy.
Antonio López-Lázaro, CEO of Euroairlines Group, values the alliance very positively and praises the Brazilian airline’s business model. “We are very proud to be able to contribute to the leading airline in Brazil having a greater presence in the world thanks to our distribution network,” explains López-Lázaro. Guillermo López-Lázaro, Market, Channels & Cargo Managing Director, highlights the Brazilian airline’s business model. “It has a modern and attractive business model adapted to new passenger demands, which in 15 years has made it a leader and an example of growth in Brazil and transatlantic operations”, adds the Director of Markets and Channels of the Spanish company.
“Connectivity has always been part of Azul’s DNA, and the partnership with the Euroairlines Group has emerged as part of a larger movement of the company, which is to use this feature to increase our international presence. We are offering our customers more destination options with the quality and experience that are already part of our brand”, said Andre Mercadante, Director of Alliances and Network Planning at Azul.
About Azul
Azul S.A. (B3: AZUL4, NYSE: AZUL) is Brazil’s largest airline in number of flights and cities served, an average of 900 flights per day, to mor than 160 destinations. With an operational fleet of more than 160 aircraft and mor than 14,000 crew members, Azul has more than 300 direct routes. In 2022, Azul was voted the most punctual airline in the world, according to the OnTime Performance-OTP Review report by Cirium -the world’s leading reference for operational data in the industry. In addition, in 2020, it received the award for best airline in the world by TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice, being the only Brazilian company to receive both recognitions. For more information, visit www.voeazul.com.br/ri.
About Grupo Euroairlines
Grupo Euroairlines (www.euroairlines.es) was born in Spain in 2000 as a commercial air transport operator. Today it is an Aeronautical Group that distinguishes itself by also offering distribution services to other airlines through its IATA Q4-291 plate with the support of leading travel agencies and GDS in more than 60 markets. Euroairlines is headquartered in Madrid (Spain) and has offices in New York, Miami, Cancun, Mexico City, Buenos Aires, Bogota, Lima, Sao Paulo and Santiago de Chile, as well as other European capitals. In addition, Grupo Euroairlines provides commercial, BPO and consulting services.
Excitement Soars at the Pietermaritzburg Airshow
The skies over Pietermaritzburg roared to life on Saturday 10th August 2024, as the FUZE Pietermaritzburg Airshow 2024 delivered a thrilling spectacle of aerial acrobatics and precision flying. Despite the sweltering heat, the event was a resounding success, with enthusiastic spectators enjoying a seamless entry experience thanks to the efficient ticketing system managed by TicketPro.
From the very start, the crowd was kept entertained and informed by the dynamic commentary provided by Brian Emmenis from Capital Sounds. His deep knowledge of the pilots and aircraft, combined with his engaging delivery, added an extra layer of excitement to the day’s events. Assisting him was Thamsanqa Elvis Manene, also from Capital Sounds, who did a fantastic job of providing commentary in isiZulu for the spectators, ensuring that everyone could fully enjoy and understand the show.
The event kicked off in spectacular fashion with the skydivers from the Durban Skydive Centre making a dramatic entrance. Leaping from the Aerospatiale SA-341F2 Gazelle, expertly piloted by Jubba Joubert, the skydivers painted the early morning sky with their colorful chutes, setting the tone for the day. The sight of these fearless jumpers descending from the heavens was a breathtaking start that had the crowd cheering in admiration.
Following this thrilling opening, a mass formation flypast brought together seven aircraft in a coordinated aerial ballet. The pilots executed intricate maneuvers in perfect sync, showcasing both their individual skills and their ability to work as a cohesive unit. The formation ended with a spectacular break, leaving the spectators in awe of the precision and timing on display.
The excitement continued with the Marksmen Aerobatics Team taking to the skies. They wowed the crowd with thrilling maneuvers such as the switchblade and knife-edge crossovers, demonstrating their extraordinary control and daring. The crowd’s gasps of awe echoed across the airfield as the Marksmen performed these gravity-defying stunts with razor-sharp precision.
Next up was Andrew Blackwood-Murray in the Nashua Extra 300 EA 300LP. His display was nothing short of spectacular as he pushed the aircraft to its limits, executing loops, rolls, and spins with breathtaking finesse. The Nashua Extra 300’s agility was on full display, leaving spectators mesmerized by the sheer power and grace of the aircraft.
Following Andrew’s performance, Jubba Joubert returned to the skies, this time showcasing the incredible capabilities of the Gazelle helicopter. His gravity-defying moves left the audience in awe as he maneuvered the Gazelle with an ease that belied the complexity of the stunts. The crowd watched in amazement as Jubba put the Gazelle through its paces, proving that helicopters can be just as thrilling as their fixed-wing counterparts.
Just as the show seemed to be settling into its rhythm, it was suddenly interrupted for a seemingly impromptu flight to celebrate a local man’s 100th birthday. The elderly man, strapped into a Piper J-3C-65 Cub, was ready for a simple joyride. However, as the pilot was checking the aircraft and had just started the engine, the plane began to move—with the centenarian at the controls! To the shock of the crowd, the old man managed to take off, with paramedics and security services chasing after the runaway aircraft.
What followed was a nerve-wracking series of low-altitude flypasts, the Cub wobbling precariously as it skimmed the ground. Officials frantically tried to talk the birthday boy through the landing process over the radio, the tension mounting with each attempt. Finally, after several shaky passes, the old man managed to bring the Cub down safely, only to be tackled by security as he exited the plane.
It was at that moment that the big reveal was made: the entire scenario had been a masterfully executed stunt. The “100-year-old man” was none other than Scully Levin, one of South Africa’s most experienced pilots, with over 30,000 hours of flying time. The crowd erupted in applause and laughter as Levin waved, having expertly piloted the Cub through its paces, demonstrating the aircraft’s capabilities in a brilliantly staged act of showmanship.
The show continued with the Navion Formation, a stunning display by aircraft built by North American Aviation, the same company that made the famous P-51 Mustangs. The Navion Formation delivered a powerful performance, showcasing the durability and grace of these classic aircraft in a series of elegant maneuvers that honored their storied legacy.
After the Navions, the Aermacchi AM3-C “Bosbok” took to the skies. These aircraft, used in conflict situations in the 70s and 80s in multiple roles such as target marking (using smoke-rockets) and reconnaissance, proved their versatility once again. Piloted by Grant Timms, the Bosbok delivered a fantastic display, demonstrating the aircraft’s agility and adaptability in various situations.
Following the Bosbok’s impressive performance, Scully Levin and his daughter Sally Fleck returned to perform in a Van’s RV-6. Their coordinated maneuvers in the RV-6 highlighted the aircraft’s capabilities, charming the crowd with a beautiful display of precision flying and familial teamwork.
After the Van’s RV-6 display, the show paused for a lunch break. During this time, the pilots gathered at the “Smoke on Go” stand, where spectators had the opportunity to meet their aviation heroes and collect autographs. This interaction was widely welcomed and supported by the crowd, adding a personal touch to the day’s events.
Following the lunch break, the skydivers took to the skies once again, delighting the audience with their precision jumps and colorful parachutes. The Marksmen team followed with another round of thrilling aerobatics, leaving the crowd in awe of their skill and daring. As the airshow continued, the routine was briefly interrupted by the arrival of an Airlink Embraer ERJ-135, a reminder that the airport was still operating commercial flights amidst the excitement of the airshow.
The show then continued with more spectacular performances from the Bosbok, Navions, and the Gazelle, each aircraft showcasing its unique capabilities in breathtaking displays. As the airshow progressed, there was a brief pause to allow the Airlink jet to take off, seamlessly blending the ongoing commercial operations with the day’s thrilling events.
Adding to the day’s excitement, Andrew Blackwood-Murray returned to the skies in the Nashua Extra 300 for another adrenaline-pumping performance. Pushing the aircraft to its limits once more, Andrew executed a series of complex maneuvers with unmatched precision and flair, leaving the audience cheering and craving more.
Bringing the event to a memorable close, the FUZE Aviation Academy took center stage with a remarkable display showcasing their exceptional training skills. The academy’s pilots performed a series of coordinated maneuvers and formations, demonstrating the high level of proficiency and professionalism that FUZE Aviation Academy instills in its trainees. The performance served as an inspiring testament to the future of aviation talent being nurtured by the academy.
As the sun set on the airfield, the FUZE Airshow 2024 concluded. It was especially great to see the Pietermaritzburg Airshow back after a 10-year gap, soaring to great heights and delivering a day full of excitement, skill, and breathtaking aerial displays that will be cherished by all who attended. The seamless blend of entertainment, community engagement, and professional aviation showcased the best of Pietermaritzburg’s aviation spirit, leaving spectators eagerly anticipating a bigger and better spectacle next year.
A special thank you goes out to all the organizers, vendors, and everyone involved who contributed to making the show a great success. This includes, but is not limited to, FUZE Aviation Academy, Creative Space Media, Smoke On Go, Capital Sounds, ALS Paramedics, local authorities, and Air Show South Africa officials who kept the show running smoothly and safely.
Please enjoy the full gallery of photos from the show below.
Irene Radio Flyers SAMAA Fly-In Festival 2024
Irene Radio Flyers SAMAA Fly-In Festival 2024: A Thrilling Day for
Aviation Enthusiasts
It’s been a while since we at Aviation Central attended a truly
exciting aviation event on the radio-controlled side, commonly known
as RC. The South African Model Aircraft Association (SAMAA) hosted the
highly anticipated Fly-In Festival 2024 at Irene Radio Flyers, located
on the southern outskirts of Pretoria, South Africa. Since its
establishment in 2007, Irene Radio Flyers has continued to grow, and
this event was a testament to their dedication.
SAMAA members, along with the passionate team from Irene Radio Flyers,
worked tirelessly to bring this event to life. They set up a Joint
Operations Centre (JOC) and coordinated with all the necessary
authorities to ensure the event ran smoothly. This included
coordinating with medical teams, the South African Civil Aviation
Authority (SACAA), the South African Police Service, and ensuring that
ATNS Notams were properly issued. Safety was the top priority, and the
event concluded without any major incidents, much to the satisfaction
of the designated safety officer.
The festival featured a variety of vendors offering everything from
delicious food and refreshing drinks to toys and novelties. Some of
South Africa’s top hobby shops also set up stalls, adding to the
excitement of the day.
The event was brought to life with engaging commentary from two
enthusiastic announcers who kept the crowd entertained throughout.
The flying displays were nothing short of spectacular, showcasing a
wide range of aircraft. From high-speed pylon racers to graceful
gliders, powerful jets to pre-World War I replicas, and everything in
between. There were scale models, the quirky “ugly sticks,” and even
super slow, vintage aircraft. The crowd was treated to an impressive
array of RC skydivers, thrilling FPV micro drone races, and 3D
helicopter displays that left everyone in awe. One of the standout
moments was a controlled aircraft that appeared to be flown by someone
who couldn’t fly, creating some heart-stopping close calls as part of
the show. It was a cleverly executed stunt that had everyone on edge.
Seth Martins, I youngster Living on a farm from the MPUMALANGA province who is a self-taught RC pilot and is from a poorer background was a special guest for the day. The story of Seth spread like wildfire and on that day he got some special gifts that included several RC Aircraft, Transmeters, and other accessories. He truly has a passion for Aviation.
For myself, the highlight of the day was the Jets, Pylon racers, and the Old timeers. Waiman Chan flow and mazing F-18 and PC-21. He flew the two aircraft to perfection.
The fast Jet was flown by Dean Grobbelaar and his Ultra Lightning. Daniel Ralefeta flew his Airobatic T1 Sport Jet and Steve Joubert flew his EX BAE Hawk.
Ivan van der Schaar, well-known Airshow pilot son, Jeandre van der Schaar gave a stunning display in his Extra. The Day had so many good displays by amazing Aircraft and experienced pilots. Just too much to name them all.
Unfortunately, many aviation lovers are unaware of just how incredible
these events are, often dismissing RC aircraft as mere “toys.” But
those who attended the Fly-In Festival were treated to an
unforgettable experience. For the younger attendees, there were two
exciting “sweety drops,” where kids and their moms eagerly scrambled
to catch the falling treats. Another crowd favorite was the egg drop
contest, where participants placed paper plates on the runway, and RC
aircraft dropped eggs from above. The person whose plate was closest
to the egg won a cash prize of R1000. Drones and other prizes were
also up for grabs in this fun-filled competition.
The festival was packed with talented pilots and stunning aircraft,
each display more impressive than the last. There were simply too many
highlights to mention, but we’ll let the photos tell the rest of the
story.
Aviation fans, mark your calendars for next year—this is one event you
won’t want to miss!
Click on a photo below to enlarge
Bell Completes Delivery of Full Bell 505 Fleet to Royal Jordanian Air Force
Milestone celebrated at RJAF pilot graduation ceremony with the Crown Prince of Jordan
Amman, Jordan (July 25, 2024) – Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, proudly announces the successful delivery of the remaining five Bell 505 aircraft to the Royal Jordanian Air Force (RJAF), completing the 10 Bell 505 fleet order. This significant milestone coincided with the graduation of the latest cohort of pilot cadets in a ceremony attended by His Royal Highness, Crown Prince of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, Al Hussein bin Abdullah II, underlining the RJAF’s ongoing commitment to excellence in aviation training and operational readiness.
“We are thrilled to have completed the delivery of the Bell 505 fleet to the Royal Jordanian Air Force,” said Danny Maldonado, chief commercial officer, Bell. “This partnership underscores our commitment to providing advanced, reliable, and efficient training solutions to our military partners in the region and serves as a true testament to the Bell 505’s capabilities as a military training platform.”
In a landmark event, presided over by the Crown Prince, the RJAF celebrated the graduation of its cadets, showcasing the Bell 505 aircraft that will be instrumental to the training of future generation of Jordanian pilots.
Brig. Gen. Mohammad F. Hiyasat, Commander of the Royal Jordanian Air Force, expressed his satisfaction with the completed fleet and the successful training of the new pilots: “The delivery of the final Bell 505 helicopters represents a major milestone in our training program. These aircraft provide our cadets with the best possible training platform, ensuring they are well-prepared for future challenges. I congratulate our cadets on their graduation and commend their dedication and hard work.”
On July 6, 2022, the RJAF signed a purchase agreement for 10 Bell 505 helicopters, aimed at enhancing the RJAF’s training capabilities. Bell worked closely with regional partner, BGS, to support this initiative with RJAF and feels grateful for their collaboration in expanding Bell’s fleet in the Middle East. The first five helicopters were delivered in November 2023, marking the beginning of a new era in rotorcraft training at the King Hussein Air College in Mafraq, Jordan.
As part of the program, later this year the customer will receive a flight training device and a comprehensive computer-based training package to support both basic and advanced rotorcraft flight training.
The Bell 505 is a versatile, five-seat aircraft designed for reliability and efficiency, equipped with the latest technology to meet the demands of modern flight training. The aircraft features a fully integrated Garmin G1000H NXi avionics suite and a Safran Arrius 2R engine with dual-channel FADEC, making it an ideal platform for military and commercial training.
To find out more about the Bell 505, please visit the Bell product page.
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 a part of 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, Pipistrel, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Arctic Cat, and Textron Systems. For more information, visit: www.textron.com.
Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking statements which may project revenues or describe strategies, goals, outlook or other non-historical matters; these statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements. 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, changes in aircraft delivery schedules or cancellations or deferrals of orders.
Airline roundtable delivered by UWE and the RAeS explores gender inequality in the pilot and pilot trainer workforce
A roundtable discussion was held at the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS), on the 19 June 2024. This was a collaboration between the RAeS and the University of the West (UWE) of England, led by Professor Susan Durbin FRAeS, Stella Warren and Captain Marnie Munns FRAeS, ATS Human Factors, with the participation of several UK and European airlines. The roundtable was a further reflection on the findings of this global study on the gender inequality in the pilot and pilot trainer workforce and was run in partnership with the Society’s Flight Training Specialist Group.
The findings from this report were published in 2022 by the Royal Aeronautical Society with the main themes from the report being presented at the roundtable, including the lack of part-time working opportunities for female pilots at senior levels, a lack of transparency in the recruitment and selection process for pilots and pilot trainers and discussion over sexual harassment and bullying. The updated republished paper can be viewed below.
RAeS Paper – Gender diversity in the pilot trainer role
The session was opened with a message from Sir Stephen Hillier, Chair of the Civil Aviation Authority, who emphasised the importance of diversifying access to the aviation and aerospace industry and the creation of the right environment to enable this. The roundtable was an opportunity to open a dialogue with airlines and consider next steps in addressing the issues highlighted in the report.
RAeS Chief Executive, David Edwards FRAeS said:
“Whilst the UK aviation industry is slowly becoming more representative of the world around us, we still only see an average of 6% female pilots. Much work has been done to promote these careers to everyone, yet the figure remains far, far too low. There are successful examples in other countries around the world, who have increased the number of female pilots, though even the most successful still only represents 15% of the pilot workforce.
The paper that the Society and UWE delivered in 2022 was eye-opening and demonstrated the clear need to provide robust measures to remove challenges and barriers to any employee, regardless of their background, gender or ethnicity. We must support better opportunities for female pilots at senior levels to work part time, and to ensure transparency within the recruitment and selection process for pilots and pilot trainers to encourage women to join and remain in the industry. Sexual harassment and bullying across the industry is completely unacceptable, this roundtable was a great opportunity for airlines to understand the less talked about challenges for female pilots.”
NOTES TO EDITOR
- A copy of the position paper is available to download here https://www.aerosociety.com/media/17924/pilot-training_gender-diversity-june-2024-v2.pdf
- David Edwards, FRAeS has served as Chief Executive of the Royal Aeronautical Society since September 2021.
- RAeS recent reports and publications include Greener by Design, Contrails and Contrail
Management, Mental Health, and Civil Aviation Safety, Air Traffic/Air Space Management Net Zero and Climate Change, and GNSS Services Supporting Civil Aviation. The RAeS monthly AEROSPACE publication features the very latest developments.
About the Royal Aeronautical Society
The Society is the only global organisation serving the entire aviation, aerospace, and space communities as both a learned society and a professional engineering institution. As such, the RAeS is independent, evidence-based and authoritative, relying on a body of knowledge going back more than 150 years. We play a leading role in influencing opinion on aviation and aerospace matters through various means including our publications, social media profile, interaction with government and an extensive events programme.
For more information about the Royal Aeronautical Society visit www.aerosociety.com, or follow RAeS on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.
Euroairlines consolidates its presence in the African market with a partnership with Tarco Aviation
The Sudanese airline, which flies to the Middle East, Egypt and Ethiopia, will have access to aggregators, consolidators and travel agencies from the network of more than 50 BSPs in which the Spanish airline is present.
Madrid, August 7, 2024. African airline Tarco Aviation has selected Euroairlines to manage the distribution of all its domestic and international routes following the signing of a partnership agreement between the two companies. Through this partnership, Tarco Aviation will access an extensive network of travel agencies, OTAs, aggregators and consolidators in more than 60 countries provided by Euroairlines through its IATA Q4-291 plate.
Tarco Aviation currently operates flights to key destinations in East Africa, such as Uganda, Egypt and South Sudan. It also offers different weekly routes from Port Sudan to major cities in the Persian Gulf such as Dubai, Doha, Riyadh, Muscat and Kuwait.
The company was founded in Khartoum (Sudan) in 2009 with the aim of offering passengers different travel options to suit their needs. It offers scheduled flights, charter services and aircraft leasing to other companies. It is currently one of the most important airlines in Sudan.
Antonio López-Lázaro, CEO of Euroairlines, said the agreement will strengthen the significant growth that the Spanish company has experienced in recent years. ‘We are very excited about this partnership, as it will allow us to join forces and expand our presence in the African market,’ explains López-Lazaro. Guillermo López-Lázaro, Market, Channels & Cargo Managing Director at Euroairlines, said that thanks to this new alliance, the company can offer new destinations. ‘The extensive connections that Tarco offers from Port Sudan allow us to expand our offer of destinations for our customers with Euroairlines quality standards’, adds Market, Channels & Cargo Managing Director of the Spanish company.
‘We are so glad for this agreement. Tarco always consider the travel agents as success partners and this partnership will help us to reach more success partners especially in the countries that we don’t have direct point of sales and this will also allow more passengers to explore the Sudanese hospitality on our flights’, adds Saad Babiker Ahmed, General Manager of Tarco Aviation.
About Euroairlines
Euroairlines (www.euroairlines.es) was founded in Spain in 2000 as a commercial air transport operator. Today it is an airline that distinguishes itself by also offering distribution services to other airlines through its IATA Q4-291 plate with the support of leading travel agencies and GDS in more than 60 markets. Euroairlines is headquartered in Madrid (Spain) and has offices in New York, Miami, Cancun, Mexico City, Buenos Aires, Bogota, Lima, Sao Paulo and Santiago de Chile, as well as other European capitals.
About Tarco Aviation
Tarco Aviation (https://www.tarcoaviation.com) was established in Sudan in 2009 as a domestic and charter airline. It currently flies to more than 20 destinations in Africa and the Middle East and offers charter and charter services. It has positioned itself as one of the largest airlines in Sudan. It is based in Khartoum, the country’s capital, and has offices in all the destinations it serves.
Euroairlines Group consolidates its leadership in the Caribbean market thanks to an alliance with Surinam Airways
Euroairlines Group consolidates its leadership in the Caribbean market thanks to an alliance with Surinam Airways
The Caribbean airline, which operates scheduled, charter and special cargo flights, will be able to offer its services in the more than 50 BSPs where the Spanish group is present
Madrid, July 23, 2024. Surinam Airways has chosen Euroairlines Group to manage the distribution of all its routes. Both parties have signed a partnership agreement that will give Surinam Airways access to a wide network of travel agencies, OTAs, aggregators and consolidators in more than 50 countries through Euroairlines Group’s IATA Q4-291 plate, in addition to the important regional and transatlantic network that the Spanish airline has. This collaboration will strengthen the presence of Surinam Airways in the global market and consolidate Euroairlines Group as a leading distribution company in the Caribbean area.
Surinam Airways currently connects Paramaribo six times a week with key Caribbean and European destinations such as Miami, Amsterdam and Georgetown, to which it offers five routes a week. It also offers less frequent routes to Aruba, Barbados, Curacao and Belem.
The company was founded in Paramaribo (Suriname) in 1962 with the aim of connecting the country’s capital by air with the second largest city, Moengo. It soon began to operate international flights thanks to a pool agreement with other airlines. Its portfolio of services includes scheduled flights, charter flights and cargo transport, including live animals, dangerous goods and refrigerated cargo. It is currently controlled by the country’s government and is the national airline.
Antonio López-Lázaro, CEO of Euroairlines, and Guillermo López-Lázaro, Markets, Channels & Cargo Managing Director, have valued the agreement as a sign of the company’s exponential growth. “We are very proud of this alliance with Surinam Airways, as it strengthens our presence in the airline distribution sector in the Caribbean”, Antonio López-Lázaro explains. “Our partner is well established in the region and it is only a matter of time before it consolidates globally thanks to our worldwide network of sales agents”, Guillermo López-Lázaro adds.
Captain Steven Gonesh, CEO of Surinam Airways, adds that this agreement marks a significant milestone in their effort to expand their network and offer the passengers more travel options. “By collaborating with Euroairlines, we are not only enhancing connectivity but also ensuring that our customers enjoy seamless travel experiences with greater convenience and comfort”. “We look forward to the mutual benefits this partnership will bring and are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead for both our companies”, explains Gonesh.
About Euroairlines Group
Euroairlines (www.euroairlines.es) was founded in Spain in 2000 as a commercial air transport operator. Today it is an airline that distinguishes itself by also offering distribution services to other airlines through its IATA Q4-291 plate with the support of leading travel agencies and GDS in more than 50 markets. Euroairlines is headquartered in Madrid (Spain) and has offices in New York, Miami, Cancun, Mexico City, Buenos Aires, Bogota, Lima, Sao Paulo and Santiago de Chile, as well as other European capitals.
About Surinam Airways
Surinam Airways (www.flyslm.com) was born in Paramaribo (Suriname) in 1962 to connect the capital with another of the country’s most important cities, Moengo. Following an alliance with Dutch airlines KLM and ALM, it began international operations in 1964 with flights between Paramaribo and Curacao, with stopovers in Georgetown and Port of Spain. Following Suriname’s independence, Suriname first operated a flight entirely by Suriname. The airline is publicly owned. It is based in Paramaribo, the country’s capital, and has offices in Amsterdam and Miami as well as sales agents in Curacao, Aruba, Barbados, Belém y Guyana.
#AntonioLópezLázaro #Euroairlines #connectingbeyond #GuillermoLópezLázaro
#SurinamAirways
Uncle Ben’s Den and the Elder’s Flight
About Uncle Ben’s Den
Uncle Ben’s Den was founded in 1990 by Ben and Sharon de Lange after they had both lost their jobs. They were residing in Daspoort in the western regions of Pretoria at the time. As believers in Jesus Christ, they were touched by the needs of the homeless and destitute senior citizens.
This led them to make their properties available to accommodate these needy people. The ministry grew exponentially and eventually had to be registered as an NPO in 2007 under B and S Care Centre.
The founder, Ben de Lange, died in 2016 and a year later his wife Sharon de Lange, retired and her daughter, Ronel van Dyk, took over as manager. In the 32 years that Uncle Ben’s Den has cared for the disadvantaged and homeless, the spectrum of caring has escalated in such a manner, that not only are the daily needs of the people seen, but attention is now given to various conditions like Alzheimer’s, Dementia, Parkinson’s, Schizophrenia, Bi-polar, Diabetes 1 and 2, Multiple Sclerosis, Cancer patients, paraplegics, amputees, mental illness, HIV positives and the deaf and blind. The one Lady said it’s like Christmas in July
Read more on Uncle Ben’s Den and how you can help. https://www.unclebensden.com/
Since we got to hear about Uncle Ben’s Den we always had a soft spot for the place. Every time we get to Uncle Ben’s we leave with a tear in our eyes, people go there just once and have a friendly chat with these people. Many of them have no family or family that just doesn’t care about them. All they need is a plate of food, a bed, a visitor to talk to, and a Hug… That all.
Uncle Ben’s Den and the Elder’s Flight
When we received a notice from Felix, the man with the biggest heart in Southern Africa, about the upcoming 2024 Elders Flight in early May, we immediately contacted Yolanda Vermeulen, who manages the list of elders for this prestigious event. Yolanda was eager to assist and connected us with Uncle Ben’s Den, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience. Twenty-eight elders were selected, with the eldest being 96 years old. The countdown to D-day was long and filled with anticipation. Like excited children, many elders repeatedly asked, “Are we there yet?” On the big day, July 6, 2024, the elders rose early on a chilly winter morning. All 28 elders, accompanied by six caregivers, were ready and enthusiastic despite the cold. They boarded a bus to the Air Force Mobile Deployment Wing, commonly known as Swartkop Air Force Base. Upon arrival, they registered and received caps, T-shirts, and goodie bags. Special thanks to Niel Swart from Aviation Central for contributing towards the blankets. The elders were then escorted to a hall set up in Hangar 5, where they enjoyed warm coffee to heat their hands and bellies. They were entertained and kept informed by Capital Sounds’ Brian Emmenis and Elvis Manene, who provided everything needed for this prestigious event. The event was masterfully managed by wise men and women who kept the elders entertained, fed them well, and ensured their safety throughout the day. Special thanks to Col. Pat Cele, Air Boss; Col. Ruan Potgieter; Capt. Richard Dixon; Col. Tshiololi; Lt Col. Phalatse; Geoff Timms; Paul Sabatier; Rikus Erasmus; Cobus Toerien; Brian Emmenis; Lynch Jordaan; Keith Andrew; Santjie White; Michael Meiring; and Goitse Diale. From Aviation Central, our heartfelt thanks go to everyone who assisted in making this event happen. The elders were treated to a mini-airshow following the Lord’s Prayer. Please refer to the full Aviation Central article for more details on the airshow and the full event. The aircraft the elders flew in ranged from a de Havilland Dash 8 operated by CemAir to a single-engine biplane, an Antonov AN2, and helicopters. The elders from Uncle Ben’s Den were safely assisted and escorted to the aircraft by Aviation Central’s Lettie van Emmenis. The excitement as they eagerly awaited their turn to fly was palpable. Some were cheerful, while others were quiet and apprehensive. Yet, all were eager to experience flying for the first time and perhaps the only time in their lives. Some may have even enjoyed a second flight! The six caregivers also had opportunities to fly, many for the first time. Their joy and excitement were infectious, and one can only imagine the stories they shared with their families that evening about this remarkable day filled with love and generosity from all involved. The highlight of the day was seeing the elders’ faces as they disembarked the aircraft, their smiles, excitement, and tears of joy were incredibly moving. Looking ahead to the 2025 Elders Flight, we at Aviation Central are committed to ensuring another group of the 170-plus elders at Uncle Ben’s Den gets the chance to fly for the first time in their lives. One day, we will all be elders, and we will all desire a warm bed, good food, love, and appreciation. See more Photos on Facebook taken by Jarryd Sinovich
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Polokwane Airshow 2024
Polokwane Airshow 2024: A Spectacular Event to Remember
In early January 2024, we were contacted by Robin Tapinos regarding the Polokwane Airshow 2024. From the beginning, Robin expressed ambitious plans and an optimistic outlook for hosting a dynamic and well-attended airshow.
Robin and his team from the Botha Shellhole in Polokwane continued pushing the boundaries daily, striving to enhance the show as the event approached. Impressively they were the first show in 2024 to secure the participation of the Gripen, a major crowd-puller, despite initial skepticism about its appearance at the Polokwane Airshow 2024. Robin, steadfast in his efforts, ensured the involvement of the South African Air Force (SAAF) in the form of jets like the Hawk and Gripen and helicopters. The civilian sector included various jets and aerobatic displays. If not for Menno Parsons’ unavailability, we might have witnessed his stunning Mustang. Unfortunately, the Flying Lions (sponsored by Puma Energy, flying the North American Harvard aircraft) were also absent due to unforeseen circumstances. Nevertheless, Robin remained optimistic and presented a full lineup of display aircraft for the 2024 Polokwane Airshow.
Approximately 170 vendors were selected for the show, offering a diverse range of products from outdoor equipment to mini-doughnuts and trucks. This variety was unprecedented for an air show and the crowd thoroughly enjoyed it. The vendors report successful sales.
On Friday, June 28th validation day and Youth Day, numerous activities and displays were arranged for the youth. The Gripen, Hawk, and BK 117 each performed two validations, captivating the youngsters with their aerial manoeuvres. Despite the overcast and cloudy weather, attendance was impressive for the pre-show day. A memorable moment was when a 4-year-old enthusiastically recognized the Aero L29 “Austrian Eagle” upon Grant Timms’ arrival. This young aviation enthusiast’s knowledge and excitement were truly remarkable, prompting a conversation about the aircraft, its owner, the display pilot and its nickname. Later that day, Andrew Blackwood-Murray arrived with his Extra 300. André van Zyl’s dual trainer, the Magni Gyro M16, was brought in by road on a trailer. The day concluded with a delightful spit braai at the Botha Shellhole Club in Polokwane, followed by a restful night at the Protea Hotel Polokwane Landmark.
Saturday June 29th 2024, show day: after an early breakfast at the hotel, our team including Capital Sounds, the airboss, safety personnel, pilots and crew headed to Polokwane International Airport. The cold morning with a low cloud base caused concern about the arrival of aircraft from other airports, primarily in Gauteng Province. Despite the weather, all but the Tow Ship Navion team and the Hawker Hunter made it to the show.
The display lineup was as follows:
- SAPS Airwing Pilatus Porter: Piloted by Col Rob Siegriest featuring a Taskforce Para drop.
- Aerospatiale SA-341F2 Gazelle: Flown by Juba Joubert, an experienced chopper pilot, delivering an impressive performance.
- Master Power duo Jason Beamish/Nigel Hopkins: Piloting two Extra Aircraft 330s, they delivered a high-energy, crowd-pleasing display.
- Magni Gyrocopter: Demonstrated by Andre van Zyl, showcasing its remarkable manoeuvrability.
- Raptors Formation Team: Led by Trevor Warner, providing exceptional formation flying.
- BK117: Piloted by Major Corrie Oberholzer of 15 Squadron, SAAF, from Port Elizabeth, known for his exceptional skills.
- -Goodyear Eagles: Featuring Jason Beamish in the lead, delivering a thrilling display with two Pitts Special aircraft.
- SAAF SAAB Gripen: Flown by Maj Jabulani Mabona, callsign “Cyrax” performing a well-executed flat display including a flare drop.
- Andrew Blackwood-Murray: In the Nashua Extra 300, performing precise aerobatics.
- Delfin L29: Displayed by young Grant Timms, who recently added the L39 to his pilot’s license, flying various classic aircraft.
- SAAF BAE Hawk: Piloted by Colonel Craig Leeson, callsign “Shark” showcasing the advanced trainer aircraft.
- Tristan Eeles: In the Extra 330SC, sponsored by On the Move footwear, delivering an outstanding performance as an upcoming aerobatic pilot.
Commentary was provided by Brian Emmenis and his Capital Sounds Team, effectively engaging the crowd along a 300m line with expert coverage, commentary and music tailored to each display. Air Show South Africa (ASSA) was represented by Show Boss Rikus Erasmus, Safety Officer Francois Hanekom, supported by Benji, Louise and Brent. Rikus expertly managed the program despite the challenges posed by late arrivals and morning weather.
Saturday Night we were treated to a braai and a few drinks at our hotel. Sunday after breakfast we headed home back to Gauteng.
With over 6,800 tickets sold, the Polokwane Airshow 2024 was undoubtedly one of our favourite events of the year and a strong contender for the 2024 Airshow of the Year. We eagerly anticipate the return of the Polokwane Airshow in 2026.
See you there!
Click on the Image below to enlarge.
The 2024 Maputo Airshow: A Spectacle of Aerial Ballet and Thrills
The 2024 edition of the Maputo Airshow was an exhilarating experience, a dazzling display of aviation prowess and showmanship. If you are from Mozambique or the neighbouring countries, this is an event you cannot afford to miss. Hosted by the Aero Clube de Moçambique and run by show organizer Gavin Neil, this year’s airshow marked its return since the last shows in 2023 and 2019, captivating aviation enthusiasts with its breathtaking performances.
A Journey in the Iconic Huey
With a gracious invite for Aviation Central’s Flippe van Emmenis and fellow photographer Jaco Kotze, to travel with Menno Parson’s Master Power Technologies team for the weekend, our adventure began on Friday, June 14, 2024. We departed from Rand Airport at midday aboard Menno Parsons’ Tiger Huey UH-1D. The Huey’s powerful Lycoming engine had more than enough power to carry us at an average ground speed of 110 knots. We were 11 passengers, with 2 crew members, led by the legendary pilot Buzz Bezuidenhout, whose stories and vast experience made the journey both safe and captivating.
The flight from Rand to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMI) took approximately 2.5 hours. The excitement of flying low through mountains and valleys made the time fly by. As we handled customs formalities at KMI, Menno Parsons, flying his P-51D Mustang, performed a thrilling low-level flypast. We joined other airshow pilots and crews at KMI, sharing camaraderie and anticipation for the upcoming show.
After a quick meal and passports stamped, we departed for Maputo, Mozambique. The 45-minute flight over the lower Kruger National Park treated us to sightings of wildebeests and giraffes. We arrived at Aeroporto Internacional de Maputo just before sunset, greeted by the sight of majestic MiG-21s on the ground. Mozambique customs made special arrangement by meeting us at Aero Clube de Moçambique this saving is time by not passing through the terminal building. We had two taxis as shuttles from the airport to the Southern Sun Maputo, where we spent the two nights. To be honest, that traffic was frightening. At the hotel, the MPA team handled our check-in as we went to attend the pilots and safety briefing. We had dinner, went for a beer with a short social, and went for a good night’s rest.
The Airshow Experience
Saturday, June 15, 2024, dawned bright and early. After a hearty breakfast, we made our way to Maputo Bay, the airshow venue. The setup resembled a vibrant festival, with a well-arranged show box and media stand providing a panoramic view over Maputo Bay.
The airshow drew a crowd of over 25,000, who were full of enthusiasm, performing the Mexican wave and cheering the spectacular performances. The line-up featured a diverse array of aircraft and pilots:
|
Time |
Display Name |
Aircraft |
Pilots |
|---|---|---|---|
|
9:15 |
The Austrian Eagle |
L29 Jet |
Grant Timms |
|
10:10 |
Tiger Huey |
Bell UH-1 Helicopter |
Menno Parsons |
|
10:30 |
LMA (Cubs), Sling |
Skydiving BD4RV-10 |
Andre Van Zyl |
|
10:45 |
Master Power Extra 330 |
Extra 330 |
Jason Beamish |
|
11:00 |
Gyrocopter Formo |
Gyrocopter |
|
|
11:05 |
BizJet Fly By |
C601 |
Bombardier 601 |
|
11:20 |
Puma Flying Lions |
Harvards (4) |
Arnie Ellis, Sean Andrew |
|
11:35 |
Mustang Sally |
P51 Mustang |
Menno Parsons |
|
11:50 |
Chipmunks Classic |
De Havilland Chipmunks |
Grant Timms, Rodney Chin |
|
12:05 |
Marksmen Aerobatic Team |
MX2 and Extra 300 (2) |
Marksmen |
|
12:15 |
Gazelle (Black) |
Helicopter |
Juba Joubert |
|
12:30 |
Good Year Pitts |
Pitts (3) |
Various |
|
12:40 |
RV-10 Elephant Bets |
RV-10 |
|
|
12:55 |
Ryan Navion Formation |
North American (2) |
Reyno Coetzer |
|
13:10 |
Gyrocopter Formo |
Gyrocopter |
Andre Van Zyl |
|
13:25 |
Chipmunks Classic |
De Havilland Chipmunks |
Grant Timms, Rodney Chin |
|
13:40 |
Skydiving |
Local Skydivers |
Louis |
|
13:55 |
Good Year Pitts |
Pitts (4) |
Jason, Gareth |
|
14:15 |
Mass Formation |
Harvards, Marksmen, Pitts, Navions |
|
|
14:45 |
Puma Flying Lions |
Harvards (4) |
Arnie Ellis, Sean Andrew |
|
15:00 |
Marksmen Aerobatic Team |
MX2 and Extra 300 (2) |
Marksmen |
|
15:10 |
Tiger Huey |
Bell UH-1 Helicopter |
Menno Parsons |
|
15:25 |
BizJet C601 and Goodyear |
Bombardier 601/Pitts |
|
|
15:40 |
The Austrian Eagle |
L29 Jet |
Grant Timms |
|
15:55 |
Navion Classic |
Solo Display |
Reyno Coetzer |
|
16:10 |
Gazelle (Camo) |
Helicopter |
Juba Joubert |
|
16:30 |
Navion Formo + Mustang Sally Solo |
P51 Mustang |
Menno Parsons |
|
16:45 |
Master Power Extra 330 |
Extra 330 |
Jason Beamish |
|
17:05 |
Puma Flying Lions Sunset |
Harvards (4) |
Arnie Ellis, Sean Andrew |
|
17:15 |
Marksmen Aerobatic Team Pyro |
MX2 and Extra 300 (2) |
Marksmen |
Each display was executed with precision and flair.
The formations, including the Cub Formation, BizJet Challenger with the Good Year Eagle’s in Formation, Mustang and Navion Formation, Gyrocopter Formation, The Flying Lions, Chipmunks, Marksmen Aerobatic Team, Cub Formation and the Grand Mass Formation, were visually stunning, and showcased impressive teamwork and coordination.
The Puma Flying Lions delivered two remarkable performances, one in the morning and one at sunset, with breathtakingly low-level flying over water.
Menno Parsons thrilled the crowd with high-energy passes in his P-51D Mustang and later joined formations with Navions and Jason Beamish’s Extra 330. The Aero L29 “Austrian Eagle,” flown by Grant Timms, opened the show with a dynamic wake-up display and continued with an extended, high-G performance in the afternoon that must have been exhausting.
The BizJet Canadair CL-600-2A12 Challenger 601, flown down from Lanseria International Airport, was a standout with its sleek design and powerful performance. 3 Ship Gyrocopter Formation was led by Andre Van Zyl. After two Gyrocopters broke away Andre continued and delivered his solo display.
Chipmunks Classic, flown by Grant Timms, and Rodney Chin was well executed and loved by everyone from the ground. RV-10 Elephant Bets and a Sling did a few solo passes showing off its beauty and gracefulness. The Show had 3 Chopper displays, The Tiger Huey and two Gazelle choppers The Two Gazelle’s were displayed by Juba Joubert, one in the Morning and one in the Afternoon. Huey was displayed by a two-man team, consisting of Buzz and Menno. The Navion’s gave us a Formation and Solo displays, flown to perfection by Reyno Coetzer and Steve George. Skydiving was performed by local skydivers and was a crowd favourite and performed soft and safe landing behind the crowds. Master Power Extra 330 flown with high energy and precision was piloted by Jason Beamish. Good Year Pitts did a two-ship display and was flown by Jason Beamish and Gareth Gill.
A Grand Finale
The Marksmen Aerobatic Team, led by Mark Hensman, captivated the audience with two displays, including a spectacular pyrotechnics show at night that had pyrotechnics on the aircraft wings and from the ground.
The event was expertly managed by Colonel Keith Fryer, known for his work at major shows like the SAAF Museum Airshow. Commentary by Brian Emmenis from Capital Sounds and Edson Vilanculos kept the audience engaged, while young Cloey Spolander made her commentary debut during the Flying Lions display. The Music was well chosen and timed for each display, well done Team Capital sounds. Brian Emmenis is an asset to any Airshow worldwide.
The crowd’s enthusiasm remained high throughout the day, turning the event into a festive celebration. Even as we departed after 9 p.m., the majority of attendees continued to enjoy the festivities, dancing and celebrating the exhilarating day.
Conclusion
The 2024 Maputo Airshow was a resounding success, thanks to the dedication of Gavin Neil, the Aero Clube de Moçambique, and all the sponsors and participants. This airshow not only showcased incredible aerial performances but also fostered a vibrant community spirit among aviation enthusiasts. We look forward to returning in 2025 for another unforgettable experience. Special thanks to Menno Parsons and Master Power Technologies for their support and hospitality.
A Personal Note
On Sunday morning, we were treated to a visit to one of the impressive Master Power Technologies data center nearing completion. This visit provided valuable insights into the innovative work being done by Menno and his team. Thank you, Menno, for your unwavering support of Aviation Central, the aviation community, and our future generations.
See you all at the next Maputo Airshow in 2025!
Click Below to enlarge photo’s
