Tag Archives: Scully Levin
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.
Potchefstroom Airshow 2024, Hosted by Smoke on Go
Potchefstroom, Founded in 1838 by the Voortrekkers, also known as Potch, is an academic city in the North West Province of South Africa NWU students are known as “Pukke”. It hosts the Potchefstroom Campus of the North-West University. Potchefstroom is on the Mooirivier (Afrikaans for “pretty river”), roughly 120 km west-southwest of Johannesburg. The Airport Coordinates -26.67062, 27.0843
Potchefstroom Airshow 2024 Sponsors
Smoke on Go
Master Power Technologies
Sandriver Crop Protection
SV Aviation
The preparations included a huge amount of grass cutting that needed to be done, while Capital Sounds set up their huge rigging of speakers and cabling needed to provide the crowd line with crisp clear sound.
Team Capital Sounds for the 2024 Potchefstroom Airshow…
Brian Emmenis: Presenter
Leon du Plessis: co presenter
Bevery Emmenis: research
Wesley van Zyl: producer
Elvis Manene: Satelite unit
Phillip Scott: Audio Left
Mike Rascher: Rhino patrol
5500+ people filled the flight line, with many vendors and a Beer Garden being available. The well-behaved crowd was well spread out and not all crowding the flight line, creating good spacing and everyone felt comfortable. Litter was to the absolute minimum. The Perfect crowd for any airshow.
HENLEY AIR provided helicopter flips for R300 Per Person. They were busy flipping till well after the show ended.
No doubt the star of the day belonged to Jason Beamish, He flew in most of the displays and almost got arrested! Well done Jason…
It was a cool start to the morning on 01 June 2024, warming up nicely later in the day. The Airshow director was Rikus Ermasus with Mark Kelbrick as safety officer. Commentating was done by no one other than Brain Emmenis and his Capital Sounds team. The show commenced at 10:00 am with the Potch Girl’s High Marjorette (aka Trompoppies). Jason Beamish followed the Girls in an Extra 300 with a well-timed flypast.
The Displays for the day were…
3 Skydivers from Johannesburg Skydive, Jumping from an Alouette 3 piloted by Juba Joubert. They had it tough in the Strong wind, yet they had a perfect display and amazing landings
Sandrivier Crop Protection and Castello Boerdery that consisted of a crop-spraying Bell 206 Long ranger, 9-cylinder radial engine air tractor AT301, an AT502XP, Air Tractor AT802, John Deere crop sprayer driven by Rijan Barnard, the aircraft and the heli were piloted by Petri van Rhyn, Henri van Niekerk, JD Heyns and Steve Viviers
Scully Levin, Arnie Meneghelli & Sean Thackwray flew the Flying Lions flat display. The radial engine sounds fill the sky with Smoke on Go! Once again the Wind made it difficult for even the well-experienced team, well done to the Team!
Magni Gyro, flewn by Andre van Zyl. Andrê always plans to attend and display as many shows as possible towing his Gyro by road on a trailer.
Andrew Blackwood-Murray, the gentleman himself in his Nashua Extra 300, Andrew is a well-experienced pilot in South Africa and the Crowd loves his aerobatic display. Once again he performed his trademark maneuver of going inverted just after take-off.
Jason Beamish & Gareth Gill Flew a two-ship Goodyear Eagles, Jason and Gareth will soon become family as Jason is set to marry Gareth’s sister.
Jonker Sailplanes JS-3 Rapture sailplane, gracefully flown by Oscar Goudrian. Oscar is based at Potchefstroom Glider Club, the factory of the Jonker Sailplanes.
The Heavy for the day was a Beech 18 flown by Captain Flippie Vermeulen giving an amazing, yet graceful display. Flippie owns the Springbok Group of Companies
Challenging windy flying conditions, Jason Beamish & Richard Nicholson displayed the LSA Aircraft in Formation.
Extreme Flight Extra 300 RC plane flown expertly by Joshua Twomey. My own (Flippie van Emmenis aviation career started with Radio Controlled Aircraft. For me, this was WoW to the extreme level, Joshua, Sponsored by his Dad can fly RC!
Then the madness started, a crazy flying act display. The display was set up as a drunk man steeling an Orion Cub Airplane. Not knowing it was a setup, one of the security personnel went running with all he had to Brain’s commentary stand wanting to help. The act included Jason Beamish being apprehended after the Orion Cub was back on the ground.
The new kids on the block, The Navion formation display flown by Steve George & Reyno Coetzer was well flown in the crosswinds. Later in the day we also saw a solo Navion Display. Navion, manufactured by North American Aviation, who also manufactured the P51 Mustang. Navion Manufacturing later moved to Ryan Aeronautical Company.
Bell 222, most well known for being “Airwolf” was displayed by Dr Andre Coetzee. This is the Skid version of the Bell 222. Henley Air has the most Bell 222 Aircraft in the world.
On the Move Extra 330 was Piloted by the Young Unlimited display pilot, Tristan Eales. Tristan’s commentary was done by his dad Barry Eales, also a well-known aerobatic pilot in South Africa. Tristan recently competed in the World Advanced Aerobatics Championships where he placed 24th overall held at Reno in the USA.
Click on Photos below to enlarge
Photos by Ruan du Rand, Marriane Eksteen, Jarryd Sinovich and Flippie van Emmenis
Virginia Airshow in Durban Returns: A Spectacular Aviation Extravaganza
After a decade-long hiatus since its last thrilling edition in July 2013, the Virginia Airshow in Durban made an electrifying comeback that left aviation enthusiasts on the edge of their seats. The highly anticipated event, meticulously organized by the Smoke on Go Foundation, delivered a day filled with awe-inspiring aerial displays and aviation excellence.
Educational Outreach by the South African Air Force
Leading up to the airshow, the South African Air Force took the initiative to enlighten the youth by hosting an informative workshop for local schools on the Friday before the show. The program aimed to educate eager learners about various facets of the South African Air Force and potential career opportunities in the military, setting the stage for an inspiring weekend of aviation exploration.
A Dazzling Start with Skydiving Thrills
The eagerly awaited airshow commenced with a breathtaking spectacle as daring skydivers from the Durban Skydive Centre leaped from an Aerospatiale SA-341G Gazelle helicopter. Durban’s favorable summer weather conditions, coupled with a stiff breeze, added an extra layer of excitement to their high-speed landings. The team of skydivers, including Vernon Kloppers, Bob Simpson, Michael Nyman, and Dave Ladell, captivated the audience with their fearless jumps.
Marksmen Aerobatic Team Sets the Bar High
The first aerobatic performance of the day was brought to the audience by the exceptional Marksmen Aerobatic Team. Led by Mark Hensman (in an Extra 300 borrowed from Elton Bondi) and featuring Eugene du Preez and Johnie Smith (both in Extra 330’s) , the team displayed impeccable precision with their tight formations and a mind-boggling “koeksister” routine that left spectators in awe.
Diverse Displays and Thrilling Acts
The action-packed program continued with a diverse lineup of aircraft and pilots, showcasing the rich tapestry of aviation talent. Notable performances included Dave Mandel’s captivating display of the Aero L-39 Albatros, the historic 3-ship De Havilland Chipmunk formation, and Andrew Blackwood-Murray’s mesmerizing aerobatics in the Nashua-sponsored Extra 300LP.
Juba Joubert’s Helicopter Mastery
Juba Joubert, with his distinguished military flying background, took to the skies in an Aerospatiale SA-341G Gazelle, defying gravity with breathtaking helicopter maneuvers that earned him thunderous applause from the mesmerized crowd.
Scully Levin’s Graceful Cirrus SR-22
Scully Levin, at the controls of the beautiful blue Cirrus SR-22, demonstrated the remarkable capabilities of this small aircraft, adding a touch of elegance to the day’s festivities.
Raptors Display Team and the Van’s RV-7 Duo
The Raptors Display Team, led by Trevor Warner and featuring Ryan Beeton, wowed the audience with their two-ship display of Van’s RV-7 aircraft. Their agility and precision in the skies were truly impressive.
South African Air Force’s Spectacular Operations Demonstration
One of the highlights of the day was the South African Air Force’s operations demonstration of the MBB/Kawasaki BK-117. Piloted by Major Jared “Gizmo” Oliver, an experienced pilot with a distinguished track record, and assisted by Flight Sergeant Coert Steynberg, this dynamic duo showcased the BK117’s versatility and prowess.
Their demonstration included daring hoisting capabilities, where they lowered two individuals from the helicopter before smoothly lifting around 400 kilograms of barrels as cargo, maneuvering it skillfully in a circuit under the helicopter. The BK117 then transitioned to a search and rescue scenario, efficiently loading a “patient” using the rear cargo doors. A breathtaking moment occurred when they executed a ground-skidding maneuver, ensuring rapid and secure deployment of soldiers or medics in challenging situations where landing is not an option.
The display concluded with a thrilling game of hide and seek, as the helicopter “popped up” behind the hedges and disappeared rapidly—a testament to the crew’s precision and mastery of their aircraft.
Participating in this extraordinary demonstration was Captain Matthew “Sabre” Allan, who earlier this year showed exemplary bravery and skill by taking control of an Oryx helicopter after the Commander was wounded and the Flight Engineer killed by a sniper, whilst on operations in the DRC, ultimately flying them back to safety.
Patrick Davidson’s Heart-Pounding Performance
Red Bull-sponsored Patrick Davidson took center stage once more, piloting the Game Composites GB1 Gamebird. His high-energy aerobatic maneuvers left spectators breathless, showcasing his exceptional skills.
Roger Deare’s Spectacular Flight in the Hollywood Bets Activation
The excitement continued as Roger Deare took to the skies in his Extra 300L (ZS-OLR), beautifully adorned in Hollywood Bets colors to promote the online Aviator Game. Engaging the audience even further, selected spectators were invited to participate by guessing the altitudes at which Roger was flying, with exciting prizes awaiting the lucky winners.
Once the guessing game concluded, Roger Deare treated the crowd to a captivating aerobatic sequence, leaving everyone in awe of his piloting skills and the sheer power of the aircraft.
Airlink’s Remarkable Showcase of the Embraer 195
Airlink took center stage with an impressive demonstration featuring the Embraer 195AR (ZS-YDE). Piloted by the skilled duo of Jaco Henning and Dean Nicholas, this performance stood out as one of the most outstanding displays of a commercial airliner at an airshow. The aircraft, adorned in a striking black livery to promote Airlink’s Skybucks program, executed a series of thrilling low flypasts that elicited thunderous applause and enthusiastic cheers from the captivated crowd.
L-39C Jet Trainer
The sleek and high-performance L-39C jet trainer from Czechoslovakia graced the skies once again, delighting spectators with its impressive capabilities.
Andrew Blackwood-Murray’s Aerial Artistry
Andrew Blackwood-Murray took to the skies in his Extra 300, delivering a mesmerizing aerobatic routine that left the crowd in awe.
Beech 18 Graceful Performance
The Beech 18 (ZS-OIJ) from Beech Aircraft Corporation, skillfully flown by Flippie Vermeulen and his son Ben, showcased the aircraft’s graceful and agile flight characteristics.
Marksmen Aerobatic Team Thrills
The Marksmen Aerobatic Team returned to the stage, wowing the audience with their spectacular and precise maneuvers.
South African Air Force’s BK117 Display
The South African Air Force demonstrated the remarkable capabilities of the BK117, piloted by Major Corrie “Serrano” Oberholzer and Flight Sergeant Coert Steynberg, in a high-energy display that left the crowd spellbound.
The Flying Lions’ Harvard Extravaganza
The Flying Lions, featuring Scully Levin, Arnie Meneghelli, Ellis Levin, and Sean Thackwray, took to the skies in their Harvard aircraft, delivering a graceful and thrilling aerobatic display.
Durban Skydive Centre Parachute Demonstration
Adding another dimension of excitement, the Durban Skydivers Center staged another thrilling parachute demonstration. Performers Roy Steemson, Michael Nyman, Alan Hosmer (in the Capital Sounds canopy), and Dave Ladell descended gracefully from the skies, their ascent provided by none other than the Gazelle helicopter.
Raptors Display Team’s Agile Maneuvers
The Raptors Display Team returned with their Van’s RV-7 aircraft (ZU-FLV and ZU-EYP), led by the expert hand of Trevor Warner, a B737 training captain with FlySafair. The second aircraft was skillfully flown by Ryan Beeton. Their agile aircraft executed a series of exhilarating aerobatic maneuvers that held the audience in rapt attention.
Patrick Davidson’s Heart-Pounding Performance
Red Bull-sponsored Patrick Davidson once again took center stage, piloting the Game Composites GB1 Gamebird. With the same high-energy enthusiasm, he continued to thrill the crowd with his breathtaking aerobatic maneuvers, leaving spectators both thrilled and amazed. Patrick’s skills at handling the aircraft were on full display, with maneuvers so dizzying that they left onlookers in awe of his precision and control.
The Flying Lions’ Grand Finale
As the sun began to set, the Flying Lions graced the skies with their signature “flat” display sequence, famously known as the sunset display. The team, comprising Scully Levin, Arnie Meneghelli, Ellis Levin, and Sean Thackwray, maneuvered their Harvards with precision and flair, reminding everyone of the golden era of aviation.
Engaging Commentary and Gratitude
Throughout the event, excellent and entertaining commentary was provided by Brian Emmenis and his team from Capital Sounds, enhancing the spectator experience.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to the organizers, Smoke on Go, and the dedicated teams that ensured the safety and well-being of all attendees. This included Durban Fire, Durban Metro, Durban SAPS, NSRI, SAP Divers, SAP Rescue, Netcare 911, SA Navy Divers, SAAF, Creative Media, Capital Sounds, ATNS, ASSA, IPS Security Company, all the Marshalls, and of course the Vendors for keeping everyone supplied with food and refreshments.
With this triumphant return, the Virginia Airshow in Durban is poised to become a staple in the airshow circuit once again, promising even greater spectacles in the years to come. Aviation enthusiasts and the local community alike eagerly await the next thrilling edition of this spectacular event.
Sixteen candles for SA’s only Mushshak
The PAC MFI-17 Mushshak is a license-built fixed-gear basic trainer aircraft used by the Pakistan Army and the Pakistan Air Force. An improved version of the Saab Safari, the MFI-17 is manufactured in Kamra, Pakistan by Pakistan Aeronautical Complex.
Hilton Wolff the owner of the only Mushshak in South Africa,came into SA as a demonstration model for the South African Airforce (SAAF) who then were in the market for a basic trainer.
In 2016 aviation enthusiasts got to see the Super Mushshak being put through its paces at Africa Aerospace and Defence at AFB Waterkloof in Pretoria from the Pakistan Airforce.This Maybe another time for the SAAF to purchase this type of trainer. But it didn’t fold out.
Initially twelve were ordered but then things went wrong and the order was eventually cancelled and the demonstration aircraft , that was delivered, stayed in South Africa for good.
The aircraft was then sold to a couple of owners where she landed up in Cape Town at a flight school and eventually in the hands of Hilton where the aircraft was based still at Wonderboom Airport and now as we speak Brakpan in the East Rand of Johannesburg.
One of Hilton’s biggest concerns about owning this former military trainer was parts availability, a concern that was quickly resolved when he contacted the factory in Pakistan and they assured him that anything he needed they were willing to supply.
The aircraft is built under licence from SAAB who originally released the military version as the SAAB MFI-17 Supporter. Hilton also made contact with SAAB and they too assured him parts would not be a challenge.
On Thursday 7th March 2022 we were invited to join the celebration of both Hiltons and the Mushshak birthday at Brakpan Airfield. We were treated to a couple of flypasts of the aircraft flown by veteran airshow display pilot Scully Levin.
The 6th of April is esteemed Hilton Wolff ‘s Birthday and the 7th of April is the Mushshak’s Birthday.
This making the Mushshak 16 years old.
Middelburg Airweek & Airshow 2019
The smell of Avgas, Mogas and Jet A1 filled the skies over Middelburg this past weekend with the first of two Mpumalanga Airshows to take place this year. The 2019 Middelburg Airshow returned this year after the planning phase taking place last year with the absence of the show. This year the organisers put together a major show with the Aero Club of South Africa having their Airweek and the highly anticipated Airshow.
Our team arrived at Middelburg on Thursday the 7th March, thanks to our aviation family Airshow friends “Just Love Mission” Little Annie the sole surving Antonov two on the Airshow circuit. We were extremely honored to be invited days before the show by Richard and Irene Lovett, organisers of past present and now future airshows at Middelburg Airfield. Our media liaison officer Mark Mansfield organized all our accommodation, once again treated to the hospitality of the Lovett Family. Mark also kept us up to date before and after the show with all necessary news updates.
Friday evening, we were treated to some early evening flying from Riaan Prinsloo, Ivan Van der Schaar and Juba Joubert in a Yak18T, Boeing Stearman and an Aerospatiale Gazelle in formation.
The Grasslands based Misasa Aerial Display Team-MAD microlights showed off their Led lights in close formation.
A number of aircraft flew in between Thursday and Saturday of the event.
Saturday morning the now exciting Speed Rally took place with some of the SAPFA members flying the speed navigation rally, which is similar to the fun rally’s we usually attend. Except that the rally is given a pre-determined handicap speed, based on a selected power setting to each aircraft.
Read more here on the Speed Rally
On show day, Hot Air balloons filled the morning sky above Middelburg. While some of the participating show aircraft made their way in from neighboring Gauteng airports and elsewhere.
A new plan at some of the airshows in South Africa this year is to have an afternoon show instead of the entire day having a full program with many repeats. This show had no repeats and a full program with no gaps in between.
A cavalcade of Trucks opened the show with Juba Joubert flying the Alouettes II above the line of trucks while Capital Sounds provided as always, the vibe to the Airshow circuits thanks to Brian Emmenis and his great team who put together sound and information on each act in the slot of the event.
The first of the processdings began with an Atlas Angel formally an Ex South Africa Airforce (SAAF) Kudu, used as a jump ship for the “Skydive Tandem Johannesburg” Delmas based parachute members and other members from neighboring parachute clubs.
Menno Parsons made a welcome back display in his P51 Mustang Sally, as the P51 had to have a major engine overhaul and was absent from airshows for a year. It was also a first to have a P51D at Middelburg Airshow.
The Just Love Mission Antonov 2 “Little Annie” with Jon-Marc Hill and Col Keith “Fulcrum” Fryer flew a fantastic display in the world’s biggest piston bi-plane. “Little Annie also raced a truck and decided to drop a number of marshmallows over the crowds of Middelburg. They’re surely know how to sweeten things up!
The Puma Flying Lions led by Scully Levin, Arnie Menageli and Sean Thakwray flew a three-ship display with the roar of the T6 Harvard. The Cows Pitts Specials had a synchro display with two aircraft displaying the colors of a good cause to the masses.
Captain Flippie Vermulen brought his Springbok Classic Air Beech 18, and showed off the classic early day propliner.
Dennis Spence had his team of the Goodyear Eagles with a full four ship display of all his Pitts S2Bs flown by Glen “Gringo” Warden, Nigel Hopkins, Johan Von Solms and Jason Beamish.
Nigel and Jason also flew the high energy aerobatic display of Team Extreme with Jason Beamish showing off his brand new Extra 330 at its first of many airshows to come. Pierre Gouws led the Raptor RVs with Nigel Hopkins, Trevor Warner and Ryan Beaton.
The main attraction of airshows has to always be the jets, this year we got to see Richard Lovetts L39ZU-IBN, David Laas Impala Mk1 ZU-IMP and Rand Airport based L29 ZU-AUX.
A new display was the hostage scenario where an Atlas Angel was taken hostage from terrorists and an Aerospatiale Gazelle came to the rescue with members of armed reaction forces. Juba Joubert also flew a solo display in an Aerospatiale Gazelle, his routine is very similar to some of the world’s present attack helicopter routines worldwide.
A gyrocopter and 2 Bathawks were put through their paces adding flavor to the ultralight aircraft on display.
The flying phase of the show was ended by a formation of the Puma Flying Lions led by the Springbok Classic Air Beech 18. A hot air balloon and fireworks ended the show, where all invited guests moved into the Lovetts Hanger for Gala evening and Price giving for the Speed Rally. The most scrumptious supper was awarded to us and many others. To all the sponsors, who made the show possible we thank you.
But to the Middelburg Aero Club and to Irene and Richard Lovett we congratulate you on a fantastic event you have once again pulled off. Us as a team get highly emotional as your hospitality, your organization and there is so much more we can say. You guys are the best of the best. We thank you, we cannot wait for Aero Club 100 next year once again to be held at Middelburg Airfield. At what we have been told, it’s going to be massive.
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