Durban Virginia Airshow – G Force Festival Delivers Spectacular Day of Aviation

26 July 2026 | Virginia Airport, Durban

Virginia Airport once again came alive as thousands of aviation enthusiasts gathered for the Durban Virginia Airshow – G Force Festival, enjoying a full day of flying displays, motorsport action, family entertainment and community spirit.

Blessed with warm winter sunshine, the event attracted an excellent crowd. Although stronger winds developed later in the afternoon, the flying programme continued safely, with only the freestyle motocross aerial stunts being curtailed.

The 2026 edition was proudly headlined by Standard Bank, with additional support from IGS Security, Netcare 911, aQuellé, Smoke On Go Foundation, NMI Group, SAB/Castle Lite, Volvo, East Coast Radio and several other valued partners.

Emergency Services Open the Show

The day commenced with the traditional Emergency Services Parade, featuring an impressive convoy of fire, medical and law enforcement vehicles, highlighting the dedication of South Africa's emergency response teams.

A Packed Flying Programme

The flying display featured an exciting mix of aerobatics, formation flying, helicopters and classic aircraft.

Highlights included:

• Jason Beamish opening the air display with an energetic aerobatic routine in the Standard Bank-sponsored Van's RV-7.
• Precision parachute demonstrations by Skydive South Africa from a Gazelle helicopter flown by Juba Joubert.
• Formation flying by Sling Aircraft, showcasing the South African-built Sling HW and Sling TSi.
• World-class formation aerobatics from The Marksmen Aerobatic Team, delivering one of the standout performances of the day.
• A crowd-favourite display by the locally based Antonov AN-2, including the ever-popular Marshmallow Drop for children.
• Demonstrations by the historic Atlas Bosbok, representing an important chapter of South African aviation history.
• An impressive solo display by the Gazelle helicopter, expertly flown by Juba Joubert.

Racing and Family Entertainment

The festival also featured the entertaining G Force Air Racing Pylon Challenge, where both aircraft and helicopters competed for the fastest times around the runway course.

Adding to the excitement were spectacular Jungle Rush FMX freestyle motocross demonstrations, including races against a Gazelle helicopter and a Formula Libre race car.

One of the day's most entertaining acts was the ever-popular "Crazy Flying" comedy routine, which had spectators laughing while showcasing exceptional flying skills disguised as controlled chaos.

A Successful Festival

Despite fewer participating aircraft than in previous years—largely attributed to current economic pressures, regulatory changes and the absence of military and airline participation—the Durban Virginia Airshow once again proved why it remains one of South Africa's favourite aviation events.

The combination of aviation, motorsport, food vendors, market stalls and family attractions created an enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.

Reflecting on Standard Bank's involvement, Imraan Noorbhai, Provincial Head of Personal & Private Banking, KwaZulu-Natal, said:

"At Standard Bank, our purpose is to drive Africa's growth, and that means investing in opportunities that inspire future generations to think bigger and aim higher. We are proud to be part of an event that not only entertains but also ignites ambition, fosters learning and strengthens community connections."

With thousands of visitors in attendance, the Durban Virginia Airshow – G Force Festival 2026 once again demonstrated the passion and resilience of South Africa's aviation community, delivering an unforgettable day of aerial entertainment and family fun.