Monthly Archives: June 2023
Sky Grand Prix of Aerobatics Thrills Durban Crowd
The 3rd edition of the Sky Grand Prix of Aerobatics (SkyGP) took place on Friday, June 16, 2023, at Virginia Airport in Durban, marking a significant aviation event for the city. Durban had not witnessed such a large-scale aviation spectacle since 2017 when the Armed Forces Day was held in the region.
Building on the success of its previous editions, the SkyGP first debuted at the Land, Sea, and Air Festival in 2014, followed by the second edition at Greyville Racecourse in 2016. Notably, the last air show in Durban occurred as far back as 2013. This year’s event was greeted by fantastic winter weather in Durban, complemented by the fact that it coincided with a public holiday. As a result, eager crowds flocked to Virginia Airport, eagerly anticipating the breathtaking displays by the participating aircraft.
The SkyGP competition is a timed and judged event encompassing three categories: Known Sequence, Unknown Sequence, and Freestyle Sequence. The event was skillfully hosted by Dave Guselli, renowned for his work on East Coast Radio, and seasoned aerobatics pilot Mike “Spanky” Gallaway from Texas, USA. Mike expertly provided detailed commentary throughout the day, enlightening the public about the aerobatic maneuvers, timings, and aircraft information, ensuring everyone remained well-informed about the proceedings and what they could expect.
The event kicked off with a pilots parade, allowing spectators to catch a glimpse of the talented contestants. The roster of pilots for this year’s SkyGP included:
Mark Hensman – South Africa – MX2 (registration N540MX)
Aarron Deliu – Australia – sharing Nigel Hopkins’s Extra EA-330SC (registration ZS-XSC)
Eugene Du Preez – South Africa – Extra EA-330SC (registration ZS-THS)
Aude Lemordant – France – sharing Mark Hensman’s MX2 (registration N540MX)
Nigel Hopkins – South Africa – Extra EA-330SC (registration ZS-XSC)
Barrie Eeles – South Africa – Extra EA-330SC (registration ZS-XBE)
Patrick Davidson – South Africa – GameBird GB-1 (registration N71PD)
Following the pilots parade, the Durban Skydive Centre added to the excitement with thrilling displays and pinpoint landings in front of the enthralled spectators.
Tristan Eeles, who was not competing, delivered a remarkable warm-up display for the known sequence category. This display served as an opportunity for the judges to assess the aerobatic “display box” and practice scoring, while Mike Gallaway guided the crowd through the sequence, explaining the maneuvers and the scoring and timing systems. Tristan’s almost flawless sequence display highlighted his potential as an upcoming aerobatics pilot, making him one to watch in the future.
The known sequence category commenced with the participating contestants flying in the order determined by a pre-event draw. Pilots had prior knowledge of the sequence, allowing them time to practice it. However, they were required to complete the sequence within a time frame of 2 minutes and 45 seconds to 3 minutes to avoid penalties. Each maneuver was meticulously judged, contributing to the contestants’ overall score.
Unfortunately, Aude Lemordant’s disqualification in the known sequence category resulted from a mistake during one of her maneuvers, causing her to cross the safety “deadline” between the display box and spectators. The deadline ensures ample space and safeguards for both the participants and the audience.
As some pilots shared aircraft, intermissions were filled with Cliff Chen’s captivating display. Cliff, a South African and world RC champion, showcased the capabilities of a Radio Controlled Slick 580, leaving the crowd gasping and cheering as he performed remarkable maneuvers that pushed the limits of what the R/C aircraft is capable of.
The unknown sequence category followed, with the pilots flying in the same predetermined order. Unlike the known sequence, the pilots were provided with the sequence on the evening prior to the event, allowing them time to study it but leaving no room for practice. Judging and timing were carried out similarly to the known sequence category.
During the lunch break, the skydivers treated the crowd to another thrilling display, while the NetCare 911 helicopter’s departure to attend to an emergency presented an opportunity for spectators to witness the takeoff of the Bell 430 helicopter.
After the break, the remaining pilots showcased their skills in the unknown sequence category. Each pilot strived to outperform the others, with mistakes opening doors for competitors to score higher. Ultimately, the competition remained fiercely contested, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats.
Nigel Hopkins and Jason Beamish, flying his Extra EA-330LX (registration ZS-EXT), delighted the audience with a sensational airshow display following the completion of the unknown sequence category. Their high-energy performance included close formation flying and breathtaking passes, captivating the crowd from start to finish.
Next up was the freestyle category, where the contenders had the freedom to perform their own routine. However, they were assessed on various disciplines and had to adhere as closely as possible to a 4-minute time frame while showcasing innovation, artistic flair, and flawless execution of individual maneuvers. Scores were based on the overall performance and innovation displayed.
Closing the flying portion of the day was a mesmerizing display by the Marksmen Aerobatic Team, comprising Mark Hensman, Jonnie Smith flying his Extra EA-330LX (registration ZS-SMI), and Eugene Du Preez. The team wowed the crowd with breathtaking close formation flying and high-energy passes, concluding their performance with a massive heart drawn in the sky, earning resounding cheers and applause from the appreciative audience.
The day concluded with the official results announcements and podium presentations, acknowledging the outstanding achievements of the participants across all categories.
The final results for the SkyGP events in their respective categories were as follows:
The organizers of the event deserve sincere gratitude for hosting the SkyGP in Durban, and appreciation goes out to everyone who contributed to its successful execution, particularly the sponsors.
The Sky GP was presented by Sky Grand Prix (Pty) Ltd, represented by Roger Deare and Nigel Hopkins, under the auspices of the Sport Aerobatic Club of South Africa and CIVA (International Aerobatic Commission).
Other officials who played key roles in the event include:
Contest Organiser: Roger Deare
Contest Director: Annie Boon
Contest Safety Officer: Cliff Lotter
Registrar and Scorer: Natalie Stark
Jury President CIVA: Mike ‘Spanky’ Gallaway
Chief Judge: Quintin Hawthorne
Judges: Guy Augur (France), Laszlo Liszkay (South Africa), Johnie Smith (South Africa)
Marketing: Katey Watkin
Medical team: Netcare 911
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Kumbululuka Kwa Bafana – Zambian Children’s Flight 2023
Felix Gosher is an Airline Transport Pilot Licence holder and charter pilot residing in Zambia Lusaka. Felix has been organizing the annual children’s flight for underprivileged children that have never flown in an aircraft before in South Africa, which started at Grand Central Airport in Midrand, South Africa and now taking place at the Magalies gliding club, Magaliesburg.
Five hundred Children who had never flown before now had a chance to leave the ground and feel for themselves what flight feels like over the past weekend at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport which is located in Chongwe District.
Felix also recently hosted the Elders flight which took a number of Elderly South African citizens for their first flight in an aircraft at Brakpan Airfield in the east rand of Johannesburg. Five hundred Children who had never flown before now had a chance to leave the ground and feel for themselves what flight feels likes!
After a successful Children’s Flight in Zambia last year on the flight line of the Zambia Airforce base in Lusaka. 2023 was surely another triumphant event with together with Belinda Gosher (Felix’s Wife) together with sponsors aircraft and pilots and the Zambia Airforce (ZAF), an event worthwhile seeing kids’ faces of excitement before and after their flight in an aircraft for the first time.
The South African media generously sponsored a flight ticket to attend the event on behalf of Aviation Central. Our flight took us from OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg on a local flight operator in Zambia, Proflight on a CRJ on a two-hour journey to Zambia Lusaka. The Southern Sun Ridgway Hotel kindly sponsored the South African Media team for two nights of accommodation.
On arrival, we were greeted by Felix and Belinda at the Airforce side of Kenneth Kaunda International Airport. Of course, the day before the event, set up is key, as making sure all is in order for the following day with vendors and helping hands busy with their assigned tasks. Without sponsors, this event would not take place.
We arrived at the airport awaiting the arrival of the children from a number of homes and orphanages through the approval of the Zambia ministry to fly an aircraft and enjoy a day with food and entertainment. The first of the morning’s proceedings started off with the lord’s prayer to kick start a safe and give an assurance that the children would remember endlessly.
The arrival of the Chief of the Zambia Air Force Lieutenant General Colin Barry, with the air force band relaying the Zambia National Anthem, while a Y12 dropped skydivers from the Zambia Airforce. One of the skydiving members also flew the Zambian flag on his return to the ground.
Alpha & Bravo Flight was up first with a Proflight Boeing 737-5Y0 and a Zambia Airforce MA60 transport aircraft to take the first load of children for their flight.
During the speeches, “ZAF Commander, Lieutenant General Colin Barry said the event was important as it was centered around inclusivity, awakening innovation and the pursuit of knowledge among vulnerable children.”
“Let’s challenge everyone to think bigger and reach higher. Through these activities we are giving the underprivileged children a glimpse of the future that is full of possibilities,” Lieutenant General Barry said.
This was followed by Charlie’s flight with more Zambia Airforce assets including a Beechcraft 1900, Cessna 208B Caravan, Y12, MA60, and a civilian King Air and a lonesome Britten-Norman BN-2 Islander.
It was then the start of the flying festivities with the Zambia Airforce Golden Eagles. The Hongdu JL-8 (K8) display team is made up of five Karakorum-8. This was a first for Aviation Central to see this jet display team in action and all we could say is WOW…
On the completion of the K8s, South African airshow display pilot Jason Beamish took to the air with his high-energy aerobatic display in his Extra 330LX. This was the first civilian aerobatic display in 50 years of independence. Jason was surely a favorite of the day with the crowd as well as the Zambia air force pilots.
On completion, it was the first of the smaller aircraft to take to the air with a combination of the Zambia Airforce. Including Cessna 206s, Beechcraft Barons, Cessna C185s, Cessna C210s, and Piper Cherokee just to name a few. The Zambia Airforce L15s were then next to do a few low-level fly-past. Being at an International airport, onlookers are able to see a number of airlines arriving, an added treat being so close to the runway on the flight line at ZAF Lusaka Airforce Base.
The ZAF hangar that was provided for utilization for the event, had a number of arrangements of seating and tables for the little ones to enjoy their meal and provide an aviation party with DJ Switcher on the turn table. Goodie bags with hats, sunglasses, and snacks were also provided.
After each of the displays, the children were able to meet and greet the display pilots and a boost of encouragement for them to become pilots in the ZAF or in the aviation industry, with that said another successful children’s flight came to an end.
Well done Felix and all that made the 2023 Zambia Children’s Flight takeoff! Thanks to everyone who made it possible to get Aviation Central to this year’s Zambia Children’s Flight.
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Parys Airshow 2023
After the first successful airshow last year being held at Parys Airfield after the covid pandemic. This years show was even bigger and better! With the help of Smoke on Go, Santam, and many other stakeholders making the show happen. Smoke on Go who after many years have been producing the Smoke on Go airshow book and now selling a monthly magazine offering top aviation bulletins.
This years show included a number of display teams from Rand Airport, Germiston and local Sandriver Crop Protection, and amongst others, were included in the display program.
The program was handled by Airshow South Africa Rikus Erasmus as Airshow boss, safety director Colonel Keith Fryer, Walter Doubell , in charge of ramp safety. Louise Hofmeyr looked after the Media.
The South African Airforce were present with their three different helicopter assets in their inventory including a 15 Squadron “Charlie” flight BK-117 from Air Force Station Port Elizabeth, flown by display pilot Major Corrie Oberholzer and Flight Sargent Coert Steynberg as the flight engineer.
16 Squadron flew their mighty Rooivalk by Major Jannes Slabbert and Major Corne Stadler. Both operational pilots from Airforce base Bloemspruit.
A Agusta A109 was on static display for the public to get a closer look at the light utility helicopter.
There was also a youth development program that was held the Friday before the show, to provide feedback to the youth wanting to join the air force or a career in the aviation fraternity.
The airshow started with a paradrop with a Aermacchi AL-60 Trojan converted to turbine power a the jump ship. It was then the start of the first of the fixed wings aircraft on the program, the Puma Flying Lions Harvard’s aerobatic display led by Scully Levin. Scully also led the Hired Gun Pitts Specials later in the day made up of three Pitts Specials S2Bs and a Single Pitts S2C.
Andrew Blackwood Murray presented his Nashua sponsored Extra 300L, and showed why he will be representing South Africa at the World Advanced Aerobatic Champs to be held in Las Vegas in October.
The Raptor RVs were up next with their tight neat and polished display made up of RV 7s and a Rv8 led by Trevor Warner, Dion Raath, Ryan Beaton and Johan von Solms.
Master Power Technologies Menno Parsons who flew both his “Tiger” Huey display and his P51D Mustang “Mustang Sally”. The only flying example P51D flying in Africa.
Some crazy flying reenactment by Jason Beamish flying the popular Bushcat aircraft had the crowds on their feet.The SkyReach BushCat is a South African light-sport aircraft developed from the Rainbow Aircraft Cheetah by Vladimir Chechin of SkyReach Aircraft.
Capital Sounds provided all the commentary during the course of the day, explaining each and every aircraft act. Both Brian Emmenis and Leon Du Plessis were heard during the show.
Springbok Classic Airs Beech 18 was a welcome sight and sound to see the classic prop- liner be put through its paces by Flippie Vermeulen and Scully Levin.
The Magni Gyrocopter was once again shown off to the crowds by Andre van Zyl.
The Sandriver Crop Protection with the form of a Air Tractor AT-402B and a Robinson R44 provided a crop spraying demonstration. The father and duo of Ivan and Jeandre van der Schaar with Ivan in the Boeing Stearman while Jeandre flew his remote control Extra 330 in formation alongside. The only display of its kind in Africa.
The Classic Flying Collection based out of Springs airfield flew their de Haviland Chipmunk formation made up of Rodney Chinn, Grant Timms and Steve Brown.
Grant Timms and Steve Brown also flew the de Haviland Tiger Moth formation, even in tough windy conditions. Scully Levine was at it again and this time in the modern Cirrus SR22.
Some of the helicopter action that was present on the day surely came from both the Henley Air Bell 230 display in HEMS Rocket colours flown by Andre Coetzee and as well as Juba Jourbert in the Aerospatiale Gazelle.
The Goodyear eagles showed off their high energy display made up of all Pitts S2Bs. At the end of the show. The pitts formed up with Africa Charter Airline Boeing 737-300 flown by Dennis Spence. After a few passes the formation broke up and and Dennis provided the crowds with a solo display in the Boeing 737 before returning to OR Tambo International Airport.
A special word of thanks goes to Creative Space Media, Hayley and Brendan Horan for hosting the media at this years show.
Well done to the organisers on a fantastic Parys Airshow. A great variety of aircraft on the program. Till next year!
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