Author Archives: Flippie Van Emmenis
South Africa all set to host premier global aerospace and defence trade exhibition
The 12th biennial Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) trade exhibition and air show, with the theme ‘Exploring New Paths, Sharing Solutions, Showcasing Innovation and Capability,’ will take place at Air Force Base Waterkloof on the outskirts of the City of Tshwane from 18 to 22 September 2024. It is considered to be one of the top six events of its kind in the world and is the only aerospace and defence exhibition and air show on the continent.
The AAD is presented in partnership with South Africa’s Aerospace, Maritime and Defence Association (AMD), the Armaments Corporation of South Africa SOC Limited (Armscor), and the Commercial Aviation Association of Southern Africa (CAASA), in collaboration with the South African Department of Defence and Military Veterans (DOD).
More than half of the available exhibition space has already been booked and confirmed. This reflects a significant vote of confidence in the event that has continued to record success and is truly in a class of its own. The event will see exhibitors coming from several countries, including the United States, Belgium, and China. The exhibitors include Sweden’s SAAB, Airbus, Turkish Aerospace Industries, and L3Harris Technologies. The event has been designed to provide the perfect platform to strengthen existing and establish new partnerships within the defence and related industries.
This year’s AAD will introduce several hubs that showcase the latest innovations. For instance, there are Energy and General Aviation hubs, as well as a third hub that features drone and anti-drone technologies. Drone operators can book space to demonstrate live at AAD through the UAV Hub online by visiting www.aadexpo.co.za.
“As organisers, we want to position the country as the global pinnacle of innovation, excellence, and a preferred investment destination. We anticipate that more than 30,000 trade visitors will engage with over 300 exhibitors. Visitors can also attend our maiden conference edition to hear thought leaders in the industry, academia, and the defence sector provide insights into topical issues that directly impact the industry. Furthermore, we project at least 60,000 visitors will attend the public air show days to witness the exhilarating aerobatics spectacle,” says Ms Nakedi Phasha, Exhibition Director at AA
Another unique initiative of the AAD is its youth development programme (YDP). This sees youth from disadvantaged and marginalised communities being exposed to science and technology disciplines and related career opportunities. In 2022, AAD hosted over 9,000 learners through its YDP initiative. For this year’s event, 12,000 learners from across all nine provinces are expected to descend on the base to benefit from this impactful programme.
The economic impact that the AAD has on South Africa’s economy is significant and makes this event stand out. International visitors to AAD 2022 contributed over R135 million to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) while public and trade visitors generated a staggering R150 million in revenue. R65 million of taxation revenue was raised and more than 1,350 jobs created, which bodes well for the importance of this notable showing on the Southern African landscape.
“Looking to the future, our focus will be on further increasing international participation, fostering collaborations, and exploring new sponsorship and partnership opportunities to grow the event’s footprint into Africa. We want to provide our partners with a premier event that contributes to the global aerospace and defence market,” concludes Ms Phasha.
For exhibitors keen on securing their space, contact us as soon as possible (www.aadexpo.co.za). Space is running out with just a few stands available for booking. Tickets will go on sale soon for the general public. So, if you are an enthusiast or a newcomer to the aviation sector, join us as we look forward to a truly spectacular event.
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ENQUIRIES
Ms Nakedi Phasha Exhibition Director:
Email: expodir@aadexpo.co.za
Connecting Holguín and Cayo Coco with London and Manchester
Iron Travel entrusts Euroairlines Group with the distribution of its new routes between Cuba and the United Kingdom
Madrid, April 18 2024. The British tour operator Iron Travel has selected the Spanish company Euroairlines Group for the distribution of its new routes between Cuba and the United Kingdom, which will begin in May 2024. Following the agreement signed by both companies, the British operator will have access to a network of travel agencies, OTAs, aggregators, and consolidators present in more than 60 countries provided by the Spanish airline.
The new routes between the UK and Cuba are exclusive and will link the cities of London and Manchester with Holguín and Cayo Coco respectively. These flights will be distributed through Euroairlines Group’s IATA Q4-291 plate.
Iron Travel is a tour operator that currently offers different services focused on Cuba, including regular and scheduled seasonal flights, car rental, accommodation and excursions.
According to Euroairlines Group CEO, Antonio López Lázaro, the agreement will intensify and consolidate the company’s presence in Latin America. “For us, Iron Travel is a strategic partner that will allow us to strengthen our presence in a very important area for international tourism,” says López Lázaro. “At Euroairlines we prioritize customer satisfaction and for this reason we are constantly looking for new alliances to be able to offer the best connections to our users so that they can reach their destination more directly”, adds the head of the Spanish company.
Ernesto Placer, CEO of Iron Travel, is “very pleased” to partner with Euroairlines Group “to launch the new routes between the UK and Cuba”. “Our collaboration will help improve Europe’s connection to the Caribbean, as we will offer the best customer experience before, during and after the trip”, he says. “We are delighted to be part of Euroairlines Group’s expansion plans”, he adds.
About Euroairlines Group
Euroairlines Group (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 Group 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 Iron Travel
Iron Travel is a British tour operator specializing in travel to Cuba. The company offers complete packages and complementary services to the flight, including accommodation, recreational activities and car rental.
Helicopters: from legacy to modern special missions
Helicopters: from legacy to modern special missions – with a world record thrown in for good measure
Bell OH-58D In Formation
On 15 April 2016, 32 Bell OH-58D Kiowa Warriors flew in formation from Fort Bragg, in the US, creating a Guinness World Record for the Largest Helicopter Formation Flight in history. The event was organized by 1st Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment, 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade of the US Army and marked part of the grand finale for the U.S. military fleet in a spectacular swansong for the platform and those who flew in them.
The Kiowa Warrior’s reputation as a capable and rugged aircraft started with the OH-58A, which launched in 1968. It underwent two rounds of modifications and upgrades until the world-record-setting OH-58D flew in 1983, with its upgraded engine and transmission. The single-engine, four-bladed armed reconnaissance helicopter was the first U.S. Army helicopter to have an all-glass cockpit and incorporate a Wire Strike Protection System (WSPS), designed to prevent wire and power line strikes due to its typically low-flying missions. The WSPS proved so successful, it was adapted to virtually every other helicopter in the U.S. fleet.
There were around 2,325 Kiowa Warriors produced up until the delivery of the final new-build platform to the U.S. Army in 1989, with the last of them being retired from active service in the US in 2020.
For Bell, and its customers, the Warrior’s lineage lives on, in the form of the Bell 407M – the first of a fleet of Bell’s Special Missions Aircraft that are based on its esteemed commercial platforms – but with even more multi-mission capabilities. Reconfigurable in just 30 minutes, the 407 is the world’s most cost-effective, multi-role helicopter, building on the proven features from the OH-58 and its 2-million flight hours with more than 750,000 being flown in combat. With capabilities that extend from public safety, HEMS and utility, to armed multirole including light attack, special ops, reconnaissance, command and control and anti-piracy, the Bell 407 is already well-established globally. In the 407’s commercial configuration, it has achieved more than six million flight hours over its 1,100-strong fleet.
The ‘M’ series takes its impressive mission versatility even further, in addition to low sustainment costs, and readily available parts interchangeable with other Bell platforms, all of which combine to keep the platform in the air as much as possible – and quickly.
Such a distinguished pedigree means the Bell 407M and its other SMA counterparts are well placed to meet the needs of Bell customers across the globe, as this next generation of aircraft takes to the skies – no doubt with some more World Records on the horizon too.
Sources:
Largest helicopter formation flight | Guinness World Records
OH-58D Kiowa Warrior Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter – Army Technology (army-technology.com)
OH-58D Kiowa Warrior | Military.com
Bell OH-58D Kiowa Warrior (helis.com)
https://planehistoria.com/the-remarkable-bell-oh-58-kiowa-warrior/
Amber Munday
+971 55 117 6572
Jay Hernandez
+1 817 280-1949
jhernandez09@bellflight.com
Follow Us:
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, 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 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.
Euroairlines will connect with more than 300 airlines after joining IATA MITA
Euroairlines
Euroairlines will connect with more than 300 airlines after joining IATA MITA
The company, which is the only Spanish one in the distribution sector airline, is present in more than 30 BSP and more than 60 countries
Madrid, April 2, 2024. The Spanish airline Euroirlines has joined the Multilateral Interline Traffic Agreement (MITA) of the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The company already used IATA services (ICH-, ICCS, BSP, CASS), but It was not yet part of a multilateral agreement with other airlines.
This agreement allows Euroairlines to connect with more than 300 airlines thanks to that all MITA members assume a common framework of action – with rights and responsibilities – in relation to the offering of passengers and baggage handling services, which establishes the conditions for collaboration in the development of routes between airlines associated.
“Entering MITA reinforces our commitment and commitment to air distribution and connectivity between routes at a global level, thus achieving Euroairlines the highest standards in air distribution. Entering MITA gives us new capabilities business together with the greatest guarantees in the industry”, assures the CEO of Euroairlines, Antonio López Lázaro. “We want our clients to be able to access the greatest number of possible options without barriers and that, thanks to a wide variety of connections, reach their destinations more directly,” adds the head of the Spanish company.
Euroairlines, Spanish airline dedicated to international air distribution and one of the four most important in the sector worldwide, offers its own flights to destinations in Spain, Portugal, France and Italy, and is present in more than 60 countries thanks to its distribution service connecting more than 350 routes through numerous alliances.
About Euroairlines
Euroairlines (www.euroairlines.es) was born in Spain in 2000 as a transport operator commercial air. Currently it is an airline that distinguishes itself by also offering distribution services to other airlines through its IATA Q4-291 plate with the backed by leading travel agencies and GDS in more than 60 markets. Euroairlines has its headquartered in Madrid (Spain) and has offices in New York, Miami, Cancún, City of Mexico, Buenos Aires, Bogotá, Lima, São Paulo and Santiago de Chile, as well as others European capitals.
About MITA
Multilateral Interline Traffic Agreement (MITA) is a standard agreement managed by the IATA Passenger Services Conference. Establishes the legal framework and describes the responsibilities, liability provisions and general obligations of procedure under which IATA member and non-member airlines can come together to create interline partnerships.
About IATA
IATA
IATA (www.iata.org ) is a trade association of airlines worldwide representing 320 airlines, 83% of those operating in total air traffic. The association enables connectivity and the sustainable and safe growth of the air transport industry.
For more information, please contact:
Ane Duñabeitia Goñi ane@ballecomunicacion.com
Roberto Ruiz Ballesteros roberto@ballecomunicacion.com
DISNEY AFRICA BRINGS FESTIVE CHEER FOR LIFT TRAVELLERS
The video can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/8q9l-0EF9mQ
JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA (13 DECEMBER, 2023) – The Walt Disney Company Africa’s #MayYourWishesComeTrue campaign continued the festive celebrations this December with a special surprise-and-delight activation aboard the Disney-inspired LIFT airplane.
Over 150 passengers, traveling from Johannesburg to Cape Town were welcomed by “Wish Agents” at their boarding gate at OR Tambo International Airport on 1 December, with each child asked what their wish for Christmas was. With their wishes adorning a special Disney-inspired Christmas tree, the young passengers boarded flight GE123, unaware that a mere two hours later those wishes would be fulfilled.
Behind the scenes the requests were communicated to Disney’s Wish Agents, on standby at Canal Walk Shopping Centre in Cape Town, who swung into action to shop up a storm, wrap the gifts and transport them to Cape Town International Airport in time for the passengers to disembark.
From bicycles, “Disney Princess The Little Mermaid” figurines, Lego® sets to even Spider-man Sony PlayStation 5’s, all the requested wishes came true as passengers disembarked the plane and entered the specially-branded walkway to meet the Wish Agents. In addition, each traveler was gifted a Disney Mickey plush and a subscription to Disney+.
Comments Christine Service, Senior Vice President and General Manager of The Walt Disney Company Africa: “To mark our 100th year anniversary, The Walt Disney Company has been celebrating the fans and storytellers who have sparked the joy and magic that embodies Disney for over 100 years. What better way to cap our year-long celebrations than with this wonderful festive moment, inspired by our “May Your Wishes Come True” campaign.”
“At LIFT we’re all about elevating our travellers’ experiences, and witnessing the pure joy which resulted from this activation was nothing short of spectacular. On behalf of all of us at LIFT, I’d like to thank The Walt Disney Company Africa team for making our passengers’ wishes come true. Our partnership with Disney has been magical and we’re pleased we can bring a sense of fun, wonder, and excitement for the whole family over the holiday period, as we continue to fly our co-branded celebratory aircraft and spoil kids with Disney activity packs”, says Jonathan Ayache, LIFT CEO.
The magical moment kicked off LIFT’s 12 days of Christmas, continuing the festive surprises for all passengers.
For more information, please contact:
For The Walt Disney Company Africa:
Luane Lavery
PR Manager: Disney+ and Studios
For LIFT:
Jessica Gois
Strategic Communications Consultant
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.
Bell Celebrates 505th Bell 505 Delivery
Bell Celebrates 505th Bell 505 Delivery
MIDDLE EAST (Nov. 22, 2023) – Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today the delivery of the 505th Bell 505 aircraft to North America-based operator, Austin Claborn. The aircraft will be configured for corporate transportation.
“To mark this historic program milestone, Bell wanted to ensure the 505th delivery was a memorable event for our many employees that have worked on this program, our suppliers and our Bell 505 customers,” said Lane Evans, director, of North America Sales. “The Bell 505 was designed to provide customers with unmatched cost-of-operations and performance for its value. Mr. Claborn has been a Bell 505 operator since 2021 and with the upgrade to the latest platform variant, Bell is proud the aircraft continues to live up to our customer’s expectations.”
Certified by Transport Canada in 2016, the Bell 505 is one of Bell’s fastest growing commercial programs to date. The aircraft’s fleet has surpassed more than 185,000 flight hours with aircraft operating on six continents worldwide.
“The Bell 505 has been nothing short of fantastic for us,” said Austin Claborn. “The technology in the cockpit makes the aircraft incredibly reliable and easy to fly. The team at Bell has been exemplary in their dedication to customer service and we couldn’t be more excited to be a part of the 505th delivery.”
The delivery ceremony took place at the Bell Textron Canada Ltd. facility in Mirabel, Quebec where more than 1,400 highly skilled employees are responsible for Bell’s current commercial production line, including the Bell 505, Bell 407GXi, Bell 429 and SUBARU Bell 412EPX. To date, the company has built and delivered more than 5,800 commercial helicopters.
With a speed of 125 knots (232 km/h) and useful load of 1,500 pounds (680 kg), the Bell 505 is Bell’s new five-seat aircraft designed for performance, efficiency and reliability using advanced avionics technology. It incorporates proven dynamic components, advanced aerodynamic design, a dual channel FADEC Safran Arrius 2R engine and best-in-class value.
For more information, visit the Bell 505 product page on our website.
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, 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 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.
- ABOUT CAVERTON
- Caverton Helicopters is the largest indigenous aviation logistics support company in Nigeria, with over 19 years experience providing fixed wing and rotary wing services to the oil and gas industry. The company currently operates a mixed fleet of aircrafts across multiple locations in Nigeria and West Africa. Caverton’s capabilities also extends to the provision of third-party rotary and fixed wing Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) services at its facility in Lagos. The company is also an Approved Training Organisation (ATO) and provides ground and flight training courses.
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.
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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.
