Author Archives: Flippie Van Emmenis
Share your AAD Photos
Use this page to share your photos of Africa Aerospace and Defence all the way back to SAAF75
Maximum of two photos per person. By uploading your photo you agree to Aviation Central using and displaying your photo on all our platforms.
Also Read About Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD2022) and USAF Aircraft Coming to AAD
About Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD2022)
The 14th Edition of Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD2022) is set to take place in September 2022. AAD2022 will consist of two parts, 21st to 23rd of September is the Trade days and are aimed at the Aviation and Defence specialists, The Weekend, 24th, and 25th of September are the Public days and consist of Africa’s largest Airshow. The Show is held biannually at Waterkloof Air Force Base in the City of Tshwane, South Africa. AAD is also know by many as Waterkloof Airshow
THE PREMIER EXHIBITION OF AIR, SEA AND LAND TECHNOLOGIES ON THE AFRICAN CONTINENT
The Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) is Africa’s only aerospace and defence expo that combines both a trade exhibition and an air show. Held biennially in the City of Tshwane – South Africa’s administrative capital, the AAD Expo is one of South Africa’s largest contributors to the country’s GDP in show years, and is regarded as a national asset.
ABOUT THE AIR SHOW AND EXHIBITION
Africa Aerospace and Defence Air show and Defence Exhibition are open to the public.
The air show comprise of a world class air demonstration, mobility track demonstrations, parachute drops, aerobatic displays and many other static displays from some of the biggest names in the aviation and defence industry who will demonstrate their latest and greatest aircraft.
There will also be organised children’s activities and attractions including a Youth Development Programme will be staged in a dedicated Pavilion with a fun fly park where the youth will have interactive activities, such as plastic model building, virtual aviation, simulator, target shooting, first-aid and crime scene investigation.
Also, read USAF Aircraft Coming to AAD
Also, read AAD 2022 Aircraft list
Public Visitor Information
Also, read Do’s and Don’ts attending an Airshow
Ticket Information
Get your Tickets now!
From Computicket in advance
Adult R200.00
Children (5 to 12) and pensioners: R100.00
At the Gate
Adult R250.00
Children (5 to 12) and pensioners: R120.00
Children under 5 are admitted free
Click the Link below to get your Tickets
Click here to get your tickets today
#AAD2022 Tickets
AAD2022 SITE MAP
DIRECTIONS TO AAD
From OR Tambo International Airport
From OR Tambo International Airport take exit 46 for R21 N towards Kempton Park / Pretoria.
Merge onto R21.
Take exit 12 for M31 / Nellmapius Drive towards Centurion.
Turn left onto Nellmapius Dr / M31.
Turn right onto Van Ryneveld Ave / M28.
From Midrand (N1)
Head northwest toward Old Pretoria Main Rd.
Turn right onto Old Pretoria Main Rd.
Take the 3rd left to stay on Old Pretoria Main Rd.
Take the 1st left onto New Rd.
Slight right to merge onto N1 towards Pretoria. Partial toll road.
Continue onto Ben Schoeman Fwy.
Take the exit towards M10.
Turn left onto M10.
The destination will be on the left.
Map
IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW
- No gazebos, laser devices, firearms, knives, glass bottles, drugs, pets, braais or umbrellas may be brought onto the AFB Waterkloof’s premises
- Visitors are not permitted to bring their own alcohol to the show
- Members of the public are requested to remain within the demarcated public viewing areas
- Ear Plugs will be sold at the Waterkloof Base
- Radios capable of tuning (Scanners), will also not be allowed on the base. If radios or Scanners are found on the day it will be confiscated by ICASA.
- The flying of Drones during the event will also not be allowed.
- Visitors are welcome to bring their cameras to photograph events.
- Visitors should bring their own camping chairs and sunscreen.
- Food stalls and a beer garden will be available, but PICNIC BASKETS are welcome
- ATMs are available throughout for your convenience
- Medical/first aid facility, access for the disabled, lost child centre
- Sufficient toilets will be available.
- Come early and enjoy a full day of wonderful entertainment
- Tips for parents: Place a name and mobile number on a piece of paper and put in your child’s pocket or write your mobile number on your child’s arm.
FAQ PUBLIC VISITORS
Will public transport be available?
Yes. There Will public transport be available?
Yes. There will be limited public transport buses (Tshwane Buses) and Gautrain Buses departing from the Centurion Railway Station to the AFB Waterkloof. The buses will depart from these locations to AFB Waterkloof in the morning and will return again in the afternoon.
Can I visit the air show in the week?
No. The trade days are strictly open to trade visitors and professionals only.
Is the show the same on both days?
The format of the show is the same on both days. The only difference between Saturday and Sunday is in the flying displays.
Parking
There is ample parking for visitors and parking is free at the Base.
Can I smoke at the air show?
AAD is a no-smoking area, no smoking is permitted in any of the halls or chalets, or restaurants.
Can I bring alcohol to the Show?
No. For the safety of everyone, alcohol cannot be brought onto the Air Show grounds.
Can I bring my dog?
No pets are allowed, for safety reasons. Registered Guide Dogs, as permitted by law, are allowed.
Is there a pharmacy on site?
There are medics on-site and medical services are provided throughout. In the event of an injury or illness, please locate the Medical Centre or contact any of the Organisers or Security Staff who will arrange assistance.
What should I do if I become separated from my child?
Any lost children are taken to the Lost Children Centre (see map for location). In the event of a lost child, the adult should report it to the Lost Children Centre or Organisers Office, or locate any of the show organisers or police at the show for assistance.
Also, read Do’s and Don’ts attending an Airshow
Aircraft list & Program
The Aircraft list will only be available in September with the Flying Program will be made available Friday 23rd September
Below are Photos from AAD2018
AAD 2022 Aircraft list
To be finalized in September 2022
This is a preliminary list of aircraft to be expected to be seen at Africa Aerospace and Defence 2022.
This is not the final list and is based on speculation
Aircraft can be added or removed or even no-show at all.
For the official aircraft list please click here
Ticked information click here
Aircraft list as Compiled by Aviation Central
The list is not final and will change
| Aircraft | Country of Origin | Company / Air Force | Confirmed Yes / No / TBC | Flying / Static |
| Lockheed L100 | South Africa | SAFAIR | Yes | Flying |
| Boeing 738 | South Africa | FlySafair | Yes | Flying |
| P51D Mustang | South Africa | Master Power Technologies | Yes | Flying |
| 2 x C-17 Globemaster | USA | USAF | Yes | Static |
| Lockheed C130J | USA | USAF | Yes | Static/TBC |
| KC-135R | USA | USAF | Yes | Static |
| KC-46 Pegasus | USA | USAF | Yes | Static |
| UH-60 | USA | USAF | Yes | Flying |
| MQ-9 | USA | USAF | Yes | Static |
| Silver Falcons | South Africa | SAAF-Central Flying School | Yes | Flying |
| Rooivalk | South Africa | SAAF-16 Squadron | Yes | Flying |
| Aero L29 | South Africa | Hangar 51 | Confirmed | Flying |
| YAK 52 | South Africa | Hangar 51 | TBC | Flying |
| BK117 | South Africa | SAAF-15 Squadron “Charlie” Flight | Yes | Flying |
| SAAB Gripen | South Africa | SAAF- 2 Squadron | Yes | Flying |
| BAE Hawk MK120 | South Africa | SAAF- 85 Combat Flying School | Yes | Flying |
| T6 Harvard | South Africa | SAAF Museum | Yes | Flying |
| Alouette II | South Africa | SAAF Museum | Yes | Flying |
| Alouette III | South Africa | SAAF Museum | Yes | Flying |
| SAPS Airwing Sovereign | South Africa | SA Police Airwing | Yes | Flying |
| Goodyear Pitts | South Africa | Aerobatics Unlimited | Yes | Flying |
| Oryx | South Africa | SAAF | Yes | Flying |
| Agusta A109LUH | South Africa | SAAF | Yes | Flying |
| Kudu | South Africa | SAAF Museum | Yes | Flying |
| Bosbok | South Africa | SAAF Museum | Yes | Flying |
| Cessna C185 | South Africa | SAAF Museum | Yes | Flying |
| Westland Lynx Mk300 | South Africa | SAAF-22 Squadron | TBC | Static |
| Casa 212 | South Africa | SAAF-44 Squadron | TBC | TBC |
| Cessna 208A Caravan | South Africa | SAAF-41 Squadron | TBC | TBC |
| Lockheed C130BZ | South Africa | SAAF- 28 Squadron | Yes | Flying |
| Beechcraft KingAir 200 | South Africa | SAAF- 41 Squadron | TBC | TBC |
| Casa 212 | Zimbabwe | Airforce of Zimbabwe | Yes | Static |
| Karakorum K-8 | Zimbabwe | Airforce of Zimbabwe | Yes | Flying |
| Puma | South Africa | SAAF Museum | Confirmed | Flying |
| Puma Flying Lions | South Africa | Academy Air | Yes | Flying |
| Extra 330 | South Africa | Iveco Extras | Confirmed | Flying |
| Piper PA-31 Navajo | South Africa | Safomar Aviation | Yes | Static |
| Piper Cherokee 180 | South Africa | Safomar Aviation | Yes | Static |
| Enstrom 280FX Shark | South Africa | Safomar Aviation | Yes | Static/TBC |
| Enstrom 480B | South Africa | Safomar Aviation | Yes | Static/TBC |
| Beechcraft B55 Baron | South Africa | Safomar Aviation | Yes | Static |
| Stemme S 15-1 ASP | South Africa | Private | Yes | Static |
| AHRLAC | South Africa | Paramount Group | TBC | Static |
| Tiger Moths | South Africa | Classic Flying Collection | Yes | Flying |
| L39 Albatross | South Africa | Private | Yes | Flying |
| Alouette III | South Africa | Private | Yes | Flying |
| Raptor RVs | South Africa | Private | Yes | Flying |
| Hired Gun Pitts | South Africa | Academy Air | Yes | Flying |
| Motor Gliders | South Africa | Private | Yes | Flying |
| Magni Gyrocopter | South Africa | Private | Yes | Flying |
| Alouette III | South Africa | Private | Yes | Flying |
Air Côte d’Ivoire opens new route to South Africa
Air Côte d’Ivoire will be launching the quickest route between Johannesburg and Abidjan, in Côte d’Ivoire, in June.
The Johannesburg-Abidjan via Kinshasa route will launch on 29 June 2022 and will be the fastest route between South Africa and Côte d’Ivoire offered by any airline in Africa. The airline will be introducing four flights per week between Johannesburg and Abidjan. Bookings opened on 1 June 2022.
Air Côte d’Ivoire’s vision is to be the leading airline in West and Central Africa. The new route also offers ease of access to 16 West and Central African countries: Congo, Gabon, Nigeria, Ghana, Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso, Niger, Liberia, Benin, Senegal, Cameroon, Togo, DRC, Côte d’Ivoire and Guinea-Bissau.
Côte d’Ivoire is seen as a strategic partner for South Africa – South African President Cyril Ramaphosa last year signed nine cooperation agreements with his Ivorian counterpart, Alassane Ouattara.
During the Ivorian-South Africa economic forum in December 2021, Ramaphosa said the West African nation is an attractive investment and trade destination for South African companies, and that African countries can fully reap the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) if they work together.
“Côte d’Ivoire is a strategic trading partner for South Africa, and there is tremendous potential to further increase trade in value-added products between our two countries. Having greater and direct access to each other’s markets is a catalyst for investment,” Ramaphosa said at the forum, held at the Sofitel Hotel in Abidjan.
Côte d’Ivoire’s GDP in 2021 stood at $70.99-billion and statistics from the African Development Bank shows that the country’s GDP could grow by 6.5% in 2022, with the transport, construction, agriculture and petroleum sectors expected to drive much of that growth.
Côte d’Ivoire will host the 2023 Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2023), the continent’s key event for trade, which actualises the vision of the AfCFTA.
The organisers of the fair, the African Export-Import Bank in collaboration with the African Union and the AfCFTA Secretariat, are expecting deals to well exceed the $36-billion in business deals signed at last year’s event.
Air Côte d’Ivoire CEO Laurent Loukou believes the new route between Abidjan and Johannesburg will be key to opening up opportunities for investment and improving bilateral trade between the two countries.
“Of course, the timing of the new route has been strategic as we lead up to IATF2023. Africa is gearing up to become a strong economic bloc and Côte d’Ivoire and South Africa have a massive role to play in that growth. Intra-Africa trade is key to unlocking industrial opportunities for many African countries, including between Côte d’Ivoire and South Africa,” he says.
“We believe in the future of Africa just as we believe in the future of our airline. We are making bold new plans for our future and that includes this new route to connect South Africa with Côte d’Ivoire. Africa is open for business and we want to make it easier for business to happen.”
“Côte d’Ivoire is one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa and offers great investment opportunities in West Africa. It makes sense to do business with us. Air Côte d’Ivoire wants to be part of this economic growth in our country.
“We are excited about this opportunity to drive new business between Côte d’Ivoire and South Africa. The possibilities for cooperation and business are endless,” says Loukou.
A wet and cold PTAR 2022
A wet and cold PTAR 2022 at New Tempe Bloemfontein – By Rob Jonkers
This year’s Presidents Trophy Air Race was held at New Tempe Bloemfontein, and traditionally held on the last weekend of May, but with the advent of the Botswana Air Show also taking place on the same weekend it was decided to move it a week earlier, which if we all had the perfect hindsight, with that event not happening, we could have held it on its traditional date, and subsequently avoiding this last few days of most unseasonal weather that befell the race weekend.
This year for sure has had many of the planned aviation events disrupted by wet, cold, windy weather systems, the most bandied about term of “cut-off low” being used to describe the weather situation. This weekend no less had a very large cold front coupled with an intense low-pressure system over the centre of the country affect the plans to race.
I arrived on Wednesday in excellent weather conditions and started setting up for the race, mostly the race control room and preparing for test flights, some of the early competitors also started to arrive at the field. Thursday saw all the aircraft arrive, some of the Cape based teams first had to wait for the front to pass before setting off, arriving just before dark. Most of the day was taken up by flight tests and registration and watching what the weather would be doing for the next day as the front was approaching.
During the first extensive Thursday afternoon briefing which also included the SA weather services team being on hand to give us the best outlook it appeared that there may be an early morning flyable gap, thus the day was planned with an early 7h30 start. As Friday dawned, it looked promising, cloud base was at a reasonable 1000 ft, and we proceeding briefing and sent the turnpoint marshals to their locations, this being particularly important to get weather condition updates from them at the furthest corners of the route.
As the morning progressed with a planned 10 am first take-off, the news from the turnpoints were not good, and then light rain started, it was then decided to scrub Day 1 with a debrief at 11 am to plan for the next day. The prediction for Saturday would be that the weather would improve from midday onwards. Everybody dispersed for some rest for the rest of the day.
Saturday dawned with flyable conditions, and in fact the window opened up from 11 onwards, thus at briefing the first take-off was planned for 11. The turnpoint marshals were sent out, who from the previous day’s rain had challenges of negotiating almost impassable roads to get to their intersections, fortunately they all sent in confirmation of being in position prior the first take-off.
This year’s field attracted 37 entries, which is very low by PTAR standards, which would normally have 60+ competitors, this year for sure the cost impact would have been affecting most would be competitors, given the fuel price virtually double that of last year at the same time. Three competitors had to withdraw mostly due to not being able to get to the event on time, thus we had 34 starters.
With the airfield being water logged, we decided not to move the aircraft from where they were parked, and carried out scrutineering in-situ and changed the papers time with a few additional minutes for the crews to collect their maps and route envelopes, which worked out well. The ground marshals were also very efficient in getting the start order taxying out at their allocated time. With the race under way, and having a cross over route, we could all watch how the order of the aircraft would be coming back over the field which was at around one third race distance.
Although the traditional race finish would be at 1PM, and given the weather window having a later than normal start, the finish was planned at 13h45, and as the time got closer to finish, the weather was threatening to deteriorate, with sudden cold and dark clouds forming just east of the field, which fortunately stayed away. The line finishers were close between Race 2 Bosbok, Race 14 Piper Commanche, Race 45 Harvard. With spacing between aircraft at the start being required to keep a safe distance, the finish order became Race 45 Harvard ZS-WSE, Race 9 RV-7 ZU-VZJ, Race 14 Piper Commanche ZS-NXG, who were the handicap winners.
Prize-giving was held at the Windmill Casino, which had laid out an excellent banquet hall for all the teams, club members and officials to enjoy. The evening started with a short debrief of the race, some of the best and “interesting” tracks being shown. Race 19 had a “long” day having lost their way at turnpoint 1 continuing northwest for 20 nm, before realising their error, they had the presence of mind to return to that first turnpoint, and continue from there to fly a good race further, only picking up one penalty, but of course adding almost 40 minutes to their time.
After the main meal, David le Roux the Race Master started the proceedings for the rest of the evening, first up Franz Smit who introduced and thanked all the sponsors supporting the race, Pilot Insure, Holborn Assets, Aircraft Finance Corporation, DJA Aviation, Century Avionics, and all the local Bloemfontein sponsors, Leon Bouttell was up next as the SAPFA Chairman, and at this point announced that Rob Jonkers would be standing down as Race Director, the baton being handed over to Iaan Myburgh.
Rob took to the stage thanking all for their support since 2018 when the Race was handed to him, at the same time an evolution of the format having been developed to today’s standard of a 10 turnpoint race limited to 300 nm, with an accuracy component added as well. There is still much discussion about this race format and its merits compared to the traditional 4 corner race, and this will be for the next Race team to work together with the racers for their input. Just as Formula 1 evolves with technology improvements, so must the PTAR evolve to take into consideration changes in technologies utilised, such as GPS based heading reference devices, different engine types that have variable power settings, these all affect the handicap speeds and course accuracy.
Rob went on to thank all those involved in the race organisation, particularly the Bloemfontein Flying Club under the key organiser Andre Grobler and experienced PTAR event coordinator, who had provided the ground marshals, turn-point marshals, and all the catering at the airfield. Nigel Musgrave as the Safety Officer with the ATNS team of Ricardo Afonso, SA Weather Services, ARCC, Bloemfontein Emergency Services team of Braam van Zyl, the CAA Special Air Events team, the local Municipality & SAPS.
After this the long awaited Prize Giving was held, with 24 trophy categories being handed out, up until the top 3 places, with third place going to Race 9 RV-7 ZU-VZJ with crew of Johan van Zyl & Eric Addison, second place going to Race 45 Harvard ZS-WSE with a crew of John Sayers & Dion Raath, and the PTAR trophy going to Race 14 Piper Commanche ZS-NXG crewed by Stefan Lombard and Martiens Marais.
After this the PTAR flag was handed over from BFC Chair Deon Loots to Jock Nel the Chairman of the Middelburg Aero Club as the 2023 PTAR event location. Thanks go to everybody who makes this event a success, especially the volunteers who take time out to assist, also the media who are key to promoting the PTAR.
Click on the photos below (By Rob Jonkers)
Meet Elizabeth Mapatle – Flight attendant to Pilot training
Meet Elizabeth Mapatle- who went from Lift Airlines flight attendant to pilot in training
Elizabeth Mapatle’s love for aviation started as a little girl when her father would take her and her siblings to the then Jan Smuts Airport to watch planes take off and land. “It was amazing to watch these magnificent machines take to the sky and what was even more mind-blowing and exciting was knowing that there were real people flying them. That’s where the seed was planted for me,” recalls Mapatle. Now at age 39, Elizabeth has completed her private pilot license and is well on the way to becoming a commercial pilot.
According to 2020 figures published by A3 Flight School in South Africa, only 5% of airline pilots and 3% of airline CEOs are female. “Flight decks are still dominated by males, even with private pilot license acquisitions – women are few and far between,” adds Mapatle. With 11 years in the aviation industry, Mapatle believes there is a lot more room for women and girls to get excited about flying.
As a flight attendant at LIFT airline, Mapatle balances getting in her flight hours with working as a cabin crew on LIFT’s domestic flights between Johannesburg to Cape Town.
Asked how the experience has been, Mapatle is clear that flying planes requires dedication. “Since I work, I need to create time, I currently have 100 hours left until I complete my commercial license.” Another consideration is the costs that go with it. However, if you can manage the costs and time needed then not even the sky’s the limit says Mapatle.
“Flying offers me an escape. When I am up there, I forget about all my problems – it’s really therapeutic,” she says. After completing her commercial license qualification, Mapatle would like to study further and pursue her Airline transport license so that she can one day become a captain.” There are several opportunities when looking to enter the aviation industry and unlike previous misconceptions, you don’t have to have Maths and Science if you are able to pay for your lessons without a scholarship,” she adds.
Mapatle studied travel and tourism and when she completed this qualification, she became a flight attendant and did her research to find a reputable flight school to pursue her dream. “I went to Rand Airport in Germiston. Finding the finances was challenging but I decided never to take no for an answer, and pursued my dream to fly.” Mapatle encourages other young girls and women who have the flight bug – to go for it. Her advice is to disregard some of the negative comments you’re likely to hear from some who don’t think women are capable of flying. “Don’t take it personally or seriously, just go for what you want,” she says. Finding support from other female pilot students and colleagues has been very beneficial to her too. “I have a group of women who offer me that support. These are mothers and other working women who are pursuing similar goals and I too am always open to offer advice to other women looking to enter the aviation sector,“ she says.
Her dreams for the future include flying commercially – whether airlines or private jets and freelancing as a drone pilot too. That’s not all, Mapatle also plans to pursue her LLB since law is another passion and possibly merge the two by pursuing an aviation law degree.
The Witbank Speed Navigation Rally
26 March 2022 by Rob Jonkers
This first of the 4th Season Speed Rallies for 2022 has been held at Witbank, organised by SAPFA and hosted by the Witbank Aeronautical Association. This is the 3rd event held at Witbank in the series, which also had to be postponed due to weather issues on the original date of 5th March, the weather forecasting being fickle at best, but looked eventually flyable on the 5th, and as Competition Director you are damned for making those weather related calls…. one way or the other, especially up here on the reef where weather changeability is so prevalent within hours.
With the change of date also saw some competitors having to withdraw and at least others could join. Similarly we had officials planned that also had to drop out, but the WAA stepped up with an additional ground support team to help out, with the end result we had a fun & safe event.
There were 20 entries, but with the early morning weather situation on the highveld, many attempted to get to Witbank, but had to turn back or could not take-off, reducing the field to 15. Only two competitors had arrived on Friday before significant thundershowers made their appearance.
The traditional Friday evening briefing was cancelled, so the full briefing was then planned for Saturday morning, where after the club provided a nice Friday dinner spread and for the teams, officials and club members, before retiring for the evening.
Saturday morning dawned with more promising weather, the predicted low cloud did not materialise, and by 9 am the cloud base had risen to around 6000 ft, with light and variable wind. The briefing was delayed to 9h30 am and was concluded at around 10 am, where everybody dispersed first for a group photo and then to park their aircraft and prepare for the scrutineers. The route for the day was one with a cross over to the east of the field, with the first series of legs to the north-west, and the 2nd series of legs to the north-east.
1st take-off was planned at 11h20, and arrivals at 12h45. With all the competitors off towards the northwest, the route had a mix of easy and challenging turnpoints, especially TP6 which required good navigating skills to find the dust road intersection from amongst the same colour surroundings, from the results this turn point seems to have been difficult to home onto. There were two groups coming over the line, those that were a bit early as they had got waylaid along the course and a group that were accurate with their navigating skills getting over the line close to their handicap times.
After all teams having returned and safe on the ground, the scoring team got to work to analyse the results, with the tracks for a number being quite accurate, although some had wobbles, three had got significantly lost. As everybody essentially left for home, it was left to the scoring team to complete their work off line, and hold a virtual prize giving as done at previous events, which was done at 8 PM.
For the Navigation Accuracy category, third place went to Quintin Kruger & Johan Whiteman in their Cherokee 235 ZS-FVV, in 2nd place Apie & Frederick Kotzee in their Robinson R66 ZS-HRS, and in 1st place Hendrik & Jandre Loots in their Sling ZU-IHK.
For the Handicap/Speed category, third place went to Quintin Kruger & Johan Whiteman in their Cherokee 235 ZS-FVV, in 2nd place Hendrik & Jandre Loots in their Sling ZU-IHK and in 1st place Apie & Frederick Kotzee in their Robinson R66 ZS-HRS.
Overall Winners in third place went to Quintin Kruger & Johan Whiteman in their Cherokee 235 ZS-FVV, in 2nd place Apie & Frederick Kotzee in their Robinson R66 ZS-HRS, and in 1st place Hendrik & Jandre Loots in their Sling ZU-IHK.
Many thanks to the Witbank Aeronautical Association for hosting this fantastic event, supporting with logistics and great meals available throughout the day, Nigel Musgrave as the Safety Officer, Iaan Myburgh doing the scoring, as well as taking up the Deputy Event Director role, Marc Robinson with his team from Century Avionics for Scrutineering, Martin Meyer & Hans Schwebel for doing Starting. Thanks also extended to ATNS for supporting ATC for this event..
.
Also thanks to our sponsors, who sponsored our sponsored teams, Prompt Roofing, Beagle Tracking, Gem Air and Aviation Direct.
Our next Speed Rally event will be in Kroonstad on the 25th June 2022
Nice perfect Track
Oops – Turned a bit early on most of the turnpoints
Click on photo below to enlarge
AERO South Africa confirmed to take place from the 7-9 July 2022, at Wonderboom National Airport, Tshwane
Messe Frankfurt South Africa is excited to announce that the second edition of AERO South Africa, Africa’s premier event for the General Aviation Industry, will take place from the 7-9 July 2022, at Wonderboom National Airport in Tshwane. The first edition was an overwhelming success and welcomed over 4200 visitors, with over 100 exhibiting companies showcasing the industry’s latest innovations from 14 aviation sectors, across 4000sqm. The three-day event is organised by Messe Frankfurt South Africa in partnership with fairnamic GmbH – the new joint venture of Messe Frankfurt and Messe Friedrichshafen who organise Europe’s largest General Aviation Show – AERO Friedrichshafen.
“The feedback from the inaugural edition of AERO South Africa was extremely positive. We have already seen an unprecedented level of interest from companies wanting to exhibit at the event. To date we are proud to announce that we have confirmed Bose, Bell Helicopters, Concorde Battery, Airbus Helicopters Southern Africa, Pooley’s, Spidertracks, Avcon Jet, Wings n Things, DJA Aviation, Aviation Direct together with SA Weather Service, Aeronautical, Blue Chip Flight School, Sling Aircraft, Get-Wings International, Vektor International, Readiness Squared, Flyfofa and Vitalmed,” says Annelie Reynolds, Portfolio Director at Messe Frankfurt South Africa.
“We are also honoured to have the support of the City of Tshwane as the host city. Wonderboom Airport is the ideal location for our event as it is one of the only venues in South Africa that can accommodate aircraft fly-ins for visitors and demo flights for aircraft OEMs and distributors, allowing for a first-hand experience to a prospective buyer during the purchase process. This not only allows our exhibitors to demonstrate their products, but also makes it more convenient for people to attend the event from around the country. In 2019, AERO South Africa welcomed over 250 fly-ins“‘ Says Reynolds.
Tobias Bretzel, Show Director of AERO Friedrichshafen adds: “We are very pleased to see how AERO South Africa is evolving and I`m strongly convinced that the show will become/ be the most important platform for the General Aviation for both fixed and rotary wing but also for Business Aviation industry in the region. AERO Friedrichshafen taking place from 27 – 30 April 2022 in Friedrichshafen Germany will strongly support the 2nd edition of the South African event.”
The event will benefit the local economy, as it brings South African and international suppliers to the City of Tshwane and connects them to private airplane and fleet owners, pilots as well as potential buyers.
“We in the Economic Development Division believe the City of Tshwane is the host of choice for the biggest General Aviation Exhibition in Africa, because the City is the hub for General Aviation in Southern Africa. We are fully committed to support Messe Frankfurt in hosting the AERO 2022, 2023 and 2024 General Aviation Exhibitions at Wonderboom National Airport and believe these editions will eclipse the successful event of 2019“, said Christiaan van der Wath, Deputy Director: Aerospace Sector Support at City of Tshwane.
Both exhibitors and visitors expressed their satisfaction with this first-time business-to-business showcase, focusing solely on the niche market of General Aviation. “The show was a roaring success and certainly met our expectations and those of our exhibitors and visitors. We are confident that AERO South Africa will become the premier promotional platform for the General Aviation and we look forward to participating at the next edition,” said Guy Worthington, Executive Director at Absolute Aviation after the 2019 event.
Fanie Jansen, the GM of Hiconnex, an aftermarket parts supplier commented that “AERO South Africa connects the right people with the right industry. It is a firm platform to market your brand to a niche market.”
General Aviation businesses are booking their space at the event at a rapid pace, and it is advisable to enquire about stand availability soon! For stand bookings, contact Annelie Reynolds, Show Director on annelie.reynolds@za.messafrankfurt.com or on 083 308 1251.
Website: www.aerosouthafrica.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/AEROExpoSA
Twitter: www.twitter.com/AEROExpoSA
Background information on Messe Frankfurt
The Messe Frankfurt Group is the world’s largest trade fair, congress and event organiser with its own exhibition grounds. The Group employs approximately 2,300* people at its headquarters in Frankfurt am Main and in 30 subsidiaries around the world. In 2021, the company had to contend with the challenges posed by the pandemic for the second consecutive year. Annual sales will be approximately €140* million after having been as high as €736 million in 2019 before the pandemic. Even in difficult times caused by the coronavirus pandemic, we are globally networked with our industry sectors. We have close ties with our industry sectors and serve our customers’ business interests efficiently within the framework of our Fairs & Events, Locations and Services business fields. One of the Group’s key USPs is its closely knit global sales network, which extends throughout the world. Our comprehensive range of services – both onsite and online – ensures that customers worldwide enjoy consistently high quality and flexibility when planning, organising and running their events. We are expanding our digital expertise with new business models. The wide range of services includes renting exhibition grounds, trade fair construction and marketing, personnel and food services. Headquartered in Frankfurt am Main, the company is owned by the City of Frankfurt (60 percent) and the State of Hesse (40 percent).
For more information, please visit our website at: www.messefrankfurt.com
* Preliminary figures for 2021
RHINO POACHING IN SOUTH AFRICA IN 2021
8 FEBRUARY 2022
Not Aviation related, But something we carry close at heart and Aviation can play a BIG roll in preventing RHINO POACHING
Also see
SANParks Celebrates South Africa’s First Black Game Capture Pilot
Media Excursion to the Kruger National Park August 2018
David Simelane Promoted To Chief Pilot Of SANParks Air Services
A total of 451 rhino were poached in South Africa in 2021, 327 within government reserves and 124 on private property. While there is a 24 percent decrease in rhino poaching compared to the pre-Covid period in 2019, there has been an increase in poaching on private properties.
In 2021, 209 rhino were poached for their horns in South African National Parks – all in the Kruger National Park. This was in fact a decrease in comparison to 2020 when 247 rhino were poached within the national parks. It is important to note that none of SANParks’ smaller rhino parks experienced any rhino losses from poaching in 2021, in comparison to the 2 rhino that were poached in 2020.
The steady decline in rhino poaching in Kruger Park is related to an increase in the intensity of anti-poaching activities in the Kruger National Park. A close working relationship between the police’s endangered species unit, the SANParks environmental crimes inspectorate has resulted in increased arrests and convictions.
One of the unintended consequences is that poaching syndicates are looking to other areas for easy prey and this has resulted in their targeting private reserves in Limpopo and Mpumalanga.
Over the last year conservation and anti-poaching efforts have intensified countrywide as a joint effort is made by state-owned conservation areas, government and private landowners to reduce the poaching of rhino in South Africa. More targeted deployment of resources is being assisted by the roll out of a CSIR-developed situational awareness platform known as CMORE into the integrated wildlife zones. Through this single technology platform all role players are able to collaborate, making use of real-time insights and analytical capability, linking, for example, camera traps and ranger patrols while integrating a range of other systems.
Information collected and communication flows through the Environmental Enforcement Fusion Centre (EEFC) which continues to support the teams at both a tactical level and strategic level. Our analysis capabilities have also improved, resulting in the increased identification of those involved in rhino poaching and trafficking and improved and expanded investigations by multi-disciplinary teams.
SANParks, provincial nature reserves and private rhino owners are dehorning rhino to deter poachers, while SANParks is investigating the feasibility of additional actions such as anti-poaching initiatives focused on apprehending poachers and establishing additional founder populations outside the Kruger National Park.
Government continues to work closely with the private sector and non-governmental organisations through the Integrated Strategic Management of Rhinoceros approach and the draft National Integrated Strategy to Combat Wildlife Trafficking (NISCWT) to address rhino poaching.
In 2021 there were 189 arrests in connection with poaching activities: 77 within the Kruger National Park and 109 outside the Park. This compares with 156 people arrested countrywide in 2020. In the 38 verdicts handed down by the courts, 37 cases resulted in the conviction of 61 accused rhino poachers/traffickers.
The following are among some of the successful prosecutions during 2021:
- Project Python: Three persons were arrested and several properties seized. The 3 accused were charged with racketeering and money laundering relating to rhino horn trafficking. One of the accused Ping WU was convicted on two money laundering charges in the Tembisa regional court. The case was remanded to 9 February 2022 for sentencing. The racketeering trial against the other two accused, Huang and Chen, continues and was postponed to the 3 March 2022 for the state to lead further evidence.
- S v Arlendo Mhlanga; Hlayisile Adam Hlongwane; Inancio Chauke were sentenced to 85 years’ imprisonment, effective sentence of 35 years imprisonment after being convicted on 10 counts in relation to the killing of three rhinos in the Pilanesberg National Park, the possession, transportation, cutting of 6 rhino horns, theft and the possession of a prohibited firearm and ammunition and trespassing. In addition, the Ford Courier vehicle which was used during the commission of the offences was forfeited to the State.
- S v W Mhangani & and 2 others were convicted for killing 3 rhinos within the Kruger National Park, for being illegally in SA, trespassing, possession of unlicensed firearm and the possession of unlicensed ammunition. Accused 1 was sentenced to an effective 45 years imprisonment and accused 2 and 3 were sentenced to an effective 30 years imprisonment.
- S v GV Tibane and J Matshinga Sithole were sentenced to 19 years imprisonment following a conviction in relation to trespassing in the Kruger National Park, contravention of the Immigration Act, illegal killing of a rhino, possession of firearm with obliterated serial number, possession of silencer, possession of firearm with intent to commit crime, possession of ammunition and possession of an axe.
- S v Emmanuel Mdluli was sentenced to 16 years imprisonment after being convicted on charges of trespassing, possession of firearm with the intention to poach a rhino, possession of firearm with serial number obliterated, conspiracy to commit a crime, possession of dangerous weapon, contravening Immigration Act.
On the international front, the following are examples of the important work that is taking place between South Africa and those countries implicated in wildlife crime:
- A Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA) process was successfully finalised between SA and Poland, after receipt of a request from Poland relating to rhino horn trophy hunting in South Africa;
- Operation Golden Strike, which relates to the cooperative work done between Southern Africa and South East Asia, has set a platform for better cooperation between these countries with the aim to combat wildlife trafficking at international levels. Several successful operations, bilateral engagements and information sharing sessions were conducted during the reporting period;
- A controlled delivery between South Africa and Vietnam took place in July 2021, resulting from the work between the Hawks and the Vietnamese authorities on a consignment of rhino horns and suspected lion bones that was trafficked to Vietnam. The operation was successfully conducted and 138kg of rhino horns and an estimated 3 tons of suspected lion bones were seized at Da Nang Port in Vietnam. The investigation continues between the two countries;
- Cross border investigations between South Africa and the People’s Republic of China are underway as a result of a joint integrated operation between the Hawks, assisted by DFFE and the transport sector at OR Tambo International Airport in December 2021. A total of 32 rhino horns were seized. The information obtained during this operation was shared with the People’s Republic of China authorities, which resulted in the arrest of one suspect in South Africa and two suspects in China as well as seizure of additional rhino horns.
South Africa remains committed to safeguarding the country’s rhino populations, and will continue to work tirelessly, alongside the private sector, committed NGOs as well as authorities in transit and destination countries, to combat wildlife crime.
** Members of the public can report any suspicious activities around wildlife to its environmental crime hotline which is 0800 205 005 or the SAPS number 10111.
To access a recording of Minister Creecy’s statement, click on: https://we.tl/t-rUwasWlZ7X
The Virtual Silver Falcons
The Virtual Silver Falcons were founded in early 2020, initially using the MB-339 which was developed for the Frecce Tricolori Virtuali that was available as a free mod. Later moving on to using the PC-MKII which was purpose made for exclusive use by the team and was spearheaded by Frank Moody from AIR.capetown.
The Virtual Silver Falcons Team are in contact with current and ex-members of the real world team in order to ensure that our displays are accurate and complimentary in displaying them in the virtual world. The team uses Digital Combat Simulator (DCS) as the platform for all display’s.
It is also worth mentioning that we will be the first official South African Virtual Display team to perform for an international Virtual airshow.
The team will be performing their debut airshow at Virtual International Air Festivals (https://virtualairfestivals.com/) on the 11th and 12th of December 2021 alongside the Virtual Blue Angels, The Virtual Red Arrows and the Virtual Swiss PC-7 team just to name a few. It is set to be the largest Virtual Airshow held to date with over 50 teams from around the world performing.
You can stream the show from the comfort of your home! (https://www.twitch.tv/virtualairfestivals)
RYAN “TACTICAL PANDA” NELSON
Falcon 1 – Team Leader
Ryan is the Flight Leader for the Virtual Silver Falcons. In the real world he holds a PPL, currently a CPL student and is a commercial drone operator and video editor. He has 18 years of experience with RC Aircraft as well.
JONATHEN “CHAOS” STOLS
Falcon 2 – Media Officer
Jonathen is our number two, as well as our Media Manager. In the real world, he holds a Commercial Pilots License, is a former Game Ranger and currently co-owns a Flight Academy.
FRANK “PROPHET” MOODY
Falcon 3 – Team Owner
Frank is the Project Manager for AIR.CapeTown, developing the Silver Falcons PC-7MKII Module. In the real world he is a Partner and photographer for TheAIR.Tech, an aerial reconnaissance company.
CLINTON “SPEAR” TROSKIE
Falcon 4
Clint is our Number 4, in the real world he holds a PPL and is the Aircraft Engineer for Royal Horse Aviation, developing a Carbon Fibre Spitfire Replica.
THOMAS “SCORPION” LOFFELMANN
Falcon 5
Thomas is our number 5 and soloist. He holds an ATPL and has real world experience in the PC-7.
RUGENE “FROSTY” FROST
Falcon 6
Rugene holds a PPL and has accumulated time on various different aircraft types. His love for flying started before he can remember and his first solo flight happened when he was just 17 years old in 2005. He Currently works for ExecuJet MRO Services as the Snr QA Auditor. His hobbies include flying model aircraft, drones and Photography.
