Tag Archives: Africa Aerospace and Defence

Share your AAD Photos

Share Your 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




    USAF Aircraft Coming to AAD

    Also, see About Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD2022)

    With this year’s Africa Aerospace and Defence Trade and Airshow around the corner. The anticipation is now here!

    A number of United States Aircraft will be coming to Airforce Base Waterkloof from the 21-25th of September 2022.

    First on the list is the Boeing C17 Globemaster, the McDonnell Douglas/Boeing C-17 Globemaster III is a large military transport aircraft that was developed for the United States Air Force (USAF) from the 1980s to the early 1990s by McDonnell Douglas. There will be two C17s at this year’s AAD.

    Click here to View the full Aircraft list

    Boeing C17 Globemaster

    The Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker is an American military aerial refueling aircraft that was developed from the Boeing 367-80 prototype, alongside the Boeing 707 airliner. It is the predominant variant of the C-135 Stratolifter family of transport aircraft.

    Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker

    The C-130J is the newest version of the C-130 Hercules and the only model in production. As of March 2022, 500 C-130J aircraft were delivered to 26 operators in 22 countries.

    C130J

    The Boeing KC-46 Pegasus is an American military aerial refueling and strategic military transport aircraft developed by Boeing from its 767 jet airliner. In February 2011, the tanker was selected by the United States Air Force (USAF) as the winner in the KC-X tanker competition to replace older Boeing KC-135 Stratotankers. The US Air Force intends to procure 179 Pegasus aircraft by 2027.

    KC46 Pegasus

    The Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk is a four-blade, twin-engine, medium-lift utility military helicopter manufactured by Sikorsky Aircraft. Sikorsky submitted the S-70 design for the United States Army’s Utility Tactical Transport Aircraft System competition in 1972. The UH-60 will also provide an air display.

    UH-60

    More aircraft will be added to the aircraft list soon including a number of South African Airforce Favourites.

    Africa Aerospace and Defence trade show will be on 21-23 September and the two airshow days are 24th & 25th September 2022 at Airforce Base Waterkloof, City of Tshwane, South Africa.

    About Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD2022)

    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

    Tickets

    Ticket Information

    AAD2022 Tickets

    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

    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

    AAD2022 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

    67 Days to AAD 2022 Media Briefing

    The countdown to 67 days to Africa Aerospace and Defence Trade exhibition and Airshow which will be held at Airforce Base Waterkloof in the city of Tshwane from 21-25 September 2022.

    A media briefing plus a youth development familiarisation to the world of aerospace was held at 28 Squadron “Portamus” (We Carry” home of the Lockheed Martin C130BZ under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Nandi Zama.

    The Deputy Chief of the South African Air Force, Major General Innocent Buthelezi welcomed the guests on behalf of the Chief of the South African Air Force, Lieutenant General Wiseman Mbambo and said that he is happy that an event of this magnitude had been dissected, reinvented, finally comes to life.

    “When we started there was still so much uncertainty on whether we would be able to host the 11th edition. The pandemic still was at its worst and we watched and waited as we gathered every pronouncement made by the World Health Organisation and our Department of Health.

    The Deputy Chief of the SA Air force mentioned that he personally likes the theme of this year’s AAD which is: exploring new paths, sharing solutions and showcasing innovation and capabilities.

    “For the first time in the history of AAD, we have secured the express permission for the presence and use of Unmanned Air Vehicles (UAVs) or drones during the show. It is evident that the future is upon us and still coming at us at the speed of light. Innovation is coming from young minds, minds that can still dream big.

    Invited guests witnessed the signing of agreements between the AAD and the City of Tshwane, Gautrain and the South African Airways, we are assured of the success of AAD2022,” said Major General Buthelezi

    The 67 learners from Mshuluzani Mayisela Primary School from bronkhorstspruit and said, “these learners are fresh, impressionable minds, we aim to ignite the spark of aviation in their minds so that they can always remember that they were part of this august moment,” he said

    The Executive Mayor of the City of Tshwane, Mr Randal Williams welcomed the AAD team to the City of Tshwane and said, “we are thrilled to be associated with the AAD, what is interesting is that it showcases the latest technological innovations.

    Ms Nompaza Ndlovu, the chairperson of AAD said, “this is a new dawn as we slowly recover from the shackles of the pandemic, I am pleased that we are back in action because we will bring all the strategic partners together to realise what we have been looking forward to, the best AAD this year,” she mentioned.

    Foreign airforces have been invited to the event with a couple already committing their presence at this year’s AAD.

    Obviously we will know closer to the event who’s who that will be at AAD 2022. Ticket sales and vendor applications will also be available in August next month.

    Africa Aerospace and Defence Trade exhibition and Airshow will run from 21-25 September 2022.

    AAD 2022 Aircraft list

    AAD2022

    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
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             

    AAD 2022 Media Launch

    We are exactly 137 days to go until AAD 2022 officially opens its doors to the world and it is indeed an exciting occasion to be launching AAD 2022 during Africa month as Africa’s largest aerospace and defence exhibition and only one of its kind, which boasts a combined exhibition of air, sea and land technologies, a static aircraft display and an air show.

    ……………

    AAD 2022 OVERVIEW

    The 2018 edition ended on a positive note, and the organisers have been preparing for the 11th edition which was deferred in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.  

    With that said, I would like to take this opportunity to update you on the plans and theme for AAD 2022.

    Static display AAD 2018

    The upcoming AAD will be hosted from the 21 – 25 September 2022 at the AFB Waterkloof in Tshwane. The format will again comprise of three trade days and two air show days which will consist of elements:

    • Indoor and outdoor exhibitions
    • A hospitality chalet line
    • Static aircraft park
    • Capability demonstrations and displays
    • Parallel events with conferences, seminars and B2B meetings.

    AAD will once again give exhibitors and trade visitors a unique opportunity to interact directly with various stakeholders over the trade days and allow for the public to witness the spectacular display of the Aviation Sector and Airforce.

    The planning for AAD 2022 is well underway, with over 50% of the exhibition space booked. We are happy to announce the following National Pavilions confirmed namely, USA, Turkey, Italy, UK, Belgium, China, India and Pakistan —- and we look forward to announcing more country pavilions.

    AAD 2022 THEME

    The disruption and resounding impact that covid caused the world was on  a large magnitude we never imagined-……….

    This  was the driving force for the organising team to relook at the strategy for AAD future exhibitions……..

    AAD is coming from an era of unlocking the aerospace and defence potential and we are now moving into a new era

    Theme for AAD 2022

    Exploring New Paths, Sharing Solutions and Showcasing Innovation and Capabilities.

    And as part of our diversification strategy, AAD will expand the Exhibitor, Trade Visitor, Delegation and Stakeholder profiles which focuses on entering new markets and exploring new paths.

    We invite new players in the Oil & Gas, Mining and Energy sectors to participate at AAD 2022. 

    Returning to AAD 2022, is the African Unity Pavilion and we are engaging with our partners in the African Union to make this a reality, with more countries and an improved partnership. The African Unity Pavilion is crucial as we work towards implementing the African Continental Free Trade Agreement which was launched in January last year.

    AAD will create significant opportunities for manufacturers to interact and share solutions with potential clients, generate business 2 business linkages and form strategic partnerships between countries, institutions, and stakeholders. As part of the exhibition, we will be hosting three conferences over the three trade days in parallel to the exhibition. 

    And topics will include: 

    • Cyber security
    • UAVS
    • Medical

    Lastly we will,

    Showcase Innovation and Capabilities…The global aerospace and defence industry has developed cutting edge technology over the years and is Apex to the ecosystem. AAD will afford exhibitors locally and internationally the platform to showcase their innovative capabilities.

    And as part of this, AAD will be launching Innovation Hubs.

    —————-

    YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME

    AAD 2022 will present a world class Youth Development Programme which supports the strategic intent of AAD in creating awareness about careers in the aerospace and defence sectors to the youth of South Africa. The YDP Chairperson will give an update this morning on the plans for AAD 2022.

    ————–

    COVID – 19 

    As more and more people are getting vaccinated globally, with South Africa having passed the 30-million-mark, we welcome the announcement by the President of South Africa to lift the national state of disaster on Covid-19 in April. 

    — All health and safety standards will remain top priority for the organisers to ensure that we deliver a safe and business conducive environment for exhibitors and stakeholders.

    CONCLUSION

    We are confident that the 11th edition will  allow  participants to maximize their potential and bring even more trade visitors and delegations which are a crucial factor in the exhibition’s success. 

    We anticipate that AAD will contribute over R1 billion to the South African economy and create over 2, 000 new jobs. The 2022 event is expected to kick start the industry’s recovery programme and the recovery will translate into jobs,  more opportunities for  SMMEs  and contribution to the GDP.

    Exhibition bookings are open and we invite you,… exhibitors, sponsors and stakeholders to secure your place at Africa’s largest gathering of decision makers, innovators, government, manufacturers and buyers on the African continent. 

    On behalf of the AAD organisers, we look forward to welcoming you to the beautiful City of Tshwane on the 21st of September to the 11th edition of AAD 2022.

    All Systems go for AAD 2022

    It is all systems go for the return of the Africa Aerospace and Defence Exhibition (AAD) in September 2022. With 22 years since its inception, AAD has been instrumental in unlocking the growth of the local, regional and even the international aerospace and defence industries.

    AAD2022

    This being the 11th edition, AAD2022 will once again be held at its home base, Air Force Base Waterkloof 21 to 25 September 2022 in the City of Tshwane. The event will follow its tradition format of three trade days followed by two public air show days. The South African President, Hon Cyril Ramaphosa recently (on 5 April 2022) announced the lifting of the national state of disaster which – according to AAD organisers, cements their readiness to deliver another sterling event.

    “As organisers we are taking every step to ensure the safety of guests, exhibitors, trade visitors and participants,” said Sandile Ndlovu, Executive Committee Chairman AAD 2022.
    “The lifting of the state of the national disaster eases our preparation and planning, and it will allow us to move swiftly in finalising our official programme of events, delegations and other planned activities for AAD 2022. A detailed Standard Operating Procedure will be communicated once the Government regulations are in place, in the next 30 days. We look forward to welcoming everyone back soon”, concluded Ndlovu.

    AAD – a gateway into the African market – is the largest Defence and Aerospace exhibition on the African continent and has been an important platform for international players to showcase innovation and capability.

    Standard rates for bookings are still open and will end on 30 April 2022, when new tariffs will apply.

    SPACE AND EXHIBITION ENQUIRIES

    For more queries please contact:

    Acting Exhibition Director
    Michelle Nxumalo
    expodir@aadexpo.co.za

    Sales and Administration
    Busisiwe Nhlanhla
    sales@aadexpo.co.za

    Sponsorships and Branding
    Nakedi Phasha
    marketingcomms@aadexpo.co.za

    Finance and Administration Manager
    Portia Ngobeni
    finance@aadexpo.co.za

    Aerospace and Defence Trade Show 2021 to be showcased at Lanseria International Airport

    Aerospace and Defence Trade Show 2021 to be showcased at Lanseria International Airport from 24th to 26th March
    AAD2021

    The organisers of the AAD Expo are excited to announce a new event on their calendar, Aerospace and Defence Trade Show 2021 which will be hosted on 24 to 26 March 2021 at Lanseria International Airport (Lanseria). Leading up to Africa Aerospace and Defence Expo in September 2022, AAD continues to create platforms that will promote innovation and capabilities within the defence and aviation industry.

    The Aerospace and Defence Tradeshow 2021 (ADTS 2021) is about exploring new paths, sharing solutions and showcasing innovation beyond Covid-19. Accessible to trade visitors only, the event will be industry focused and aptly emphasise industry capabilities and technologies that emanated from the challenges posed by the Covid pandemic.  ADTS 2021 will include business to business meetings, onsite capability demonstrations for aircraft and UAVs and a conference. Parallel to the Lanseria event program, traders can  also expect a fully-fledged display of Land forces innovation and capability demonstrations  at the Gerotek Testing Facility. Located in the  West area  of Pretoria, Gerotek offers a variety of testing and capability demonstration set to marvel participants.

    ADTS 2021 is set to bring together approximately 150 exhibitors consisting of 80% local industry and 20% international industry including the Defence and General Aviation industry, Airports, UAV/Drone operators, Security System Operators (Cybersecurity, Crowd Control, etc), Medical Supply Companies , Support and Logistic services to name but a few. This experience gives the South African and International defence and general aviation industries an opportunity to showcase their products and services, while also engaging in dialogue and discourse on what is pertinent to their industries.

    “The hosting of AAD events, for the past 21 years, has made a significant contribution to the growing  South African economy and that of its neighbouring countries through leveraging intellectual property into tangible products and export contracts.   We will continue to create an enabling environment for dialogue in our sector. As one of our key mandates pronounces, it will remain our goal to bring together subject matter experts in thought leadership dialogues such as ADTS2021.” Said Sandile Ndlovu – Executive Chairman of AAD Expo.

    The AAD Expo traditionally brings together a plethora of local and key international guests to explore and discuss opportunities on the African Continent. Through ADTS2021, AAD will entrench its position as an economic catalyst for the Defence and Aerospace industry.

    About AAD

    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 Lanseria International Airport

    Privatized in 1991 the airport is a secondary base for local carriers and services the general and commercial aviation business. Approximately 2.3 million passengers travel through the airport annually. Lanseria International has established itself as a niche-market boutique airport operating scheduled daily domestic routes between Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban.

    Picture by Niel Swart,Aviation Central
    Picture by Niel Swart,Aviation Central

    The airport is also the chosen international port of entry for overseas corporate and government aircraft visiting South Africa. The airport is conveniently located close to the northern suburbs of Johannesburg and Sandton business district with only 25 minutes of travel in either direction it also provides access to tourism hubs such as The Cradle of humankind, Sun City and the Hartbeespoort.

    Picture by Niel Swart,Aviation Central

    SAAF 75 best Airshow in Southern Africa to date?

    Pictures by Stefaan Bouwer

    The flightline at Airforce Base Waterkloof in Pretoria during the early week of October 1995 saw a number of visiting military air arms from across the world, attended what was South Africa’s biggest military Airshow to date!

    SAAF 75 Display Program

    This was also the the 75th Birthday celebrations of the South African Air Force. A number of aircraft were painted up in special paint schemes for the celebration, including the SAAF Museums Mirage IIICZ “Black Widow”.

    SAAF Museum Mirage IIICZ “Black Widow”

    From the biggest Antonov A124 which brought a number of Russian Fighter jets in the back of the hold, including a Mig 29 and SU35. Both flying and on static display!

    Russian Airforce Su35
    Russian Airforce Mig29

    The Americans brought out all their bells and whistles including an F16, F15, KC135R Stratotanker, C130s, Lockheed C-141 Starlifter and many more!

    USAF F16

    Australia brought out a P-3 Orion and the Canadian Airforce attended with a Boeing 707.The Royal Airforce were here with the famous Red Arrows, C130, and a E-3 Sentry.

    Red Arrows

    The South African Air Force put on a excellent variety of both new and old, including the Mirage F1AZ flown by Chris “Piranha” Pretorius, which he got struck by lightning during one of his solo displays during the show. It was one of the last shows the Impala MK1s being the Silver Falcons before being replaced by the then new Pilatus PC7 MkII “Astra”.

    1 Squadron Mirage F1AZ
    2 Squadron Cheetah Cs

    One has to ask will we ever see a show as big as this one day again?

    Red Arrows
    Russian Airforce SU30

    2018 vs 2019 Airshow Seasons with a Look into 2020

    The 2019 Airshow season has come to end and has been quiet year, yet it was busier than 2018.

    In 2019 we lost Rand Airshow and has still not been added to the 2020 Airshow calendar. The Longest Current Running Airshow is Newcastle and it will celebrate its 10th Airshow in 2020. Newcastle took 2nd Place at African Pilot Airshow of the year award. Johan, lead organizer of the Newcastle Airshow said that they are aiming at the number one spot for the 2020 season.

    Something new was the Sports Aerobatic Club Airshow at Klerksdorp this year. We truly enjoyed that airshow. This was an Airshow arranged by the Airshow and Aerobatic pilots themselves. The 2020 SAC Airshow will be in Bloemfontein.

    Stellenbosch hosted a top-class Airshow this year and for that reason they took the African Pilot Airshow of the Year Award. Stellenbosch team will be back with a two-day Airshow in 2020. Mozambique and Swaziland (Eswatini) also hosted very successful airshows in 2019 and both will be back 2020.

    The SAAF Museum – Swartkop Airshow was delayed this year due to the Presidential Ingurgitation. When South African Airforce finally decided on a new date for the 2019 Airshow, the SAAF Museum team had about one calendar month to arrange an Airshow with the size of what is expected by the public was a huge task! The team delivered an almost perfect show. Well-done.
    The SAAF Museum – Swartkop Airshow 2020 will form part of the SAAF 100 celebrations and 2021 Swartkop Air Force Base will be celebrating 100 Years. The SAAF one hundred celebrations will be themed Embracing our Collective Heritage and 100 years of Air Power, through 25 years of Democracy

    The Main SAAF100 – Public Calibrations Airshow will run in conjunction with Africa Aerospace and Defense 2020 that is to be hosted at Waterkloof Air Force Base in September 2020.

    The Aeroclub of South Africa will also be celebrating 100 Years in 2020 with their main event is to run with the Aero Club Airweek and Airshow 1st Week in May 2020. South Africa will also be hosting the World Air Rally championships in Stellenbosch during 2020.

    The 2020 Edition of the President trophy Air Race will be hosted at Ermelo in May and as part of SAAF and Aero Club centenary celebrations we will see a Silver Queen Air Rally to be hosted at Swartkop AFB.

    Click here to view our online 2020 Calendar

    ____________________________________________________________________________________

    DJ Aviation & Team Aviation Central

    We would like to thank DJA Aviation for Teaming up with Team Aviation Central and this making it possible for us to attend more Airshows in the Year 2020

    DJA is an aviation insurance broking specialist

    We provide aviation coverage for individuals and companies. Our brokers will create a portfolio specific to your needs – balanced between cost, coverage, service and security

    _____________________________________________________________________________

    Airshows 2018 vs 2019

    2019 Had 12 Airshows compared to 7 in 2018. 2019 Airshows had 355 total flying aircraft vs the 213 in 2018. Yes, 2019 had more Airshows so let’s have a look at the average number of aircraft per Airshow 2019 had 31 and 2018 had 30 average aircraft (Number of aircraft divided by number of Airshows)

    The Top performer in airshow attendance was Team Xtreme Airshows, with attending 10 Airshows and total of 36 Aircraft vs 2018 Top Performers. Flying Lions, Attended 7 and 20 Aircraft appearances!

    The Airshow with the most Aircraft for 2019 and 2018 was Swartkop with 53 for 2019 vs 54 2018.

    3 Airshows up its number of Aircraft from 2018 to 2019 with Botswana Wesbank international Airshow showing the biggest growth.

    Number of Aircraft per Airshow where the Airshow was hosted in both 2018 and 2019

    Airshow

    2018 2019 Growth
    Matsieng 24 37 13
    Newcastle 26 32 6
    Bethlehem 18 24 6
    Swartkop 54 53 -1
    Lowveld 42 33 -9

    2 Squadron Gripen

    SAAF Gripen remained the same with 6 Gripen’s flying in 2018 and 2019. C130BZ, another favorite among the public saw no displays during 2019.

    Helicopters and Airliners was also in the decline for 2019. The Airlink Embraer E190 was a welcome newcomer to Airshows and flew at Lowveld, Newcastle and Ladysmith. The 2018 Season Lowveld Airshow was the only Airshow lucky enough get the Embraer E190.

    Menno Parsons and his P51D Mustang also made a welcome return to the Airshows with 0 Airshows in 2018 and 7 in 2019. The Reason for 0 in 2018 is the Mustang engine was sent for a scheduled overhaul.

    The Best Airshow of the year awards 2018 vs 2019

    Position 2018 2019
    1st Lowveld Airshow Stellenbosch Airshow
    2nd Rand Airshow Newcastle Airshow
    3rd Ermelo Air Show Middelburg Airshow

    Brian Emmenis and his Capital Sounds team was the broadcaster at all airshows in 2018 and 2019. At Some Airshows he had specialist co-commentators that was provided by the Airshow organizers.
    The Sound was as always clear throughout the Flight lines. Brian and his Crew kept the crowds on their feet and well informed on all Pilots, Aircraft, Team, Airshows, Sponsors, Key Aviation Media, all the Safety and behind the seen personnel. We are looking forward to a festive and busy year 2020 in the compony of the wonderful team.

    ** Notes**

    • AAD2018 is not counted as it’s not an Airshow but a Trade show.
    • If an Aircraft or Team flew more than one displays a day it is still counted as one, counted per airshow and not displays
    • Some Pilots and Teams displayed at other events that classified as an Airshow, these are also excluded

    Below are the 2018 and 2019 Airshow Attendance lists

    2018 Airshows

    2019 Airshows

    2020 Interim Airshow Calendar

    Date

    Event
    JAN
    18th – 19th SAC Gauteng Regionals – Vereeniging
    FEB
    MAR
    7th – 8th North West Regionals – Klerksdorp
    21 & 22 FASHKOSH 2020 Stellenbosch 2-day air show
    APR
    4th Wings and Wheels Festival, Uitenhage
    25th Garden Route Air Show – GEORGE AIRPORT
    MAY
    1,2,3 Middelburg – Aeroclub Aero week
    9th Swartkop Airshow
    16th Lowveld Air show
    23rd – 25th PTAR – Ermelo
    23rd – 24th SAC KZN Regionals – Ladysmith
    30th Wesbank Botswana Air show
    JUN
    5th & 6th Newcastle Air show
    13th Maputo Air, Sea and Land Air show
    16th – 20th SAC National Championships – Tempe
    20th SAC Aerobatic Air Show
    JUL
    22nd – 1st SAC Advanced World Championships
    AUG
    22nd Bethlehem Air Show
    SEP
    19th – 20th AAD Waterkloof – SAAF100
    OCT
    3rd – 4th SAC Western Cape Regionals
    24th – 25th SAC Judges Trophy
    NOV
    9th – 21st SAPFA World Rally Championships
    DEC
    5th – 6th SAC Ace of Base
    Social media & sharing icons powered by UltimatelySocial