By Garth Calitz In a country where aviation often means gravel runways, high-density altitudes and long distances between fuel stops, aircraft need to be more than attractive machines; they need to be tough, simple and affordable. The Bat Hawk is exactly that. Over the years, this proudly South African light sport aircraft (LSA) has carved out a reputation as one of the most practical light aircraft operating on the continent. But the Bat Hawk’s story is about more than priva

By Garth Calitz A significant labour development is unfolding in South Africa’s aviation sector, as the government considers whether pilots, cabin crew, and certain aviation personnel should be designated as “essential services” under national labour legislation, a move that could fundamentally reshape industrial relations in the industry. At the centre of the process is the Essential Services Committee (ESC), a statutory body established under the Labour Relations Act. The c

By Rob Russell It's not an unusual sight nowadays to see so many white aircraft parked around airports. It's not due to a lack of imagination from the airlines! Gone are the days of fancy paint schemes. Well, at least for a few years! Whilst an aircraft painted all over showing a certain brand or advertising a certain product is unusual and stands out, most aircraft are white for some very practical (and as important, economical) reasons. (And to keep the bean counters happy)