By Garth Calitz

On Friday afternoon, I reached Fly-inn Estate prepared for a one hour and twenty minute flight with Gregory Clegg in his impressive Jodel D11. We were headed to Pyramid Air Park, a piece of Lowveld Paradise. Pyramid Air Park was created when the landowner, Brian Young, chose to transform this picturesque area, located northwest of the charming town of Barberton, into an air park.

Ten shares were offered to aviators seeking a weekend retreat destination, and only two shares remain available. Many shareholders are currently constructing hangars with attached accommodations.

Peter Lea, one of the initial shareholders, chose to share this treasure with fellow aviation enthusiasts by organizing an annual event. This was the third Pyramid Aviators Weekend.

Pyramid Air Park features eight chalets available for rent at a nominal fee. These chalets are strategically positioned so you can taxi your aircraft and park conveniently near your accommodation.

We departed from Fly-inn, and upon entering Special Rules East, the radio was filled with calls from aircraft heading to Pyramid, including those coming from as far as Kroonstad in the Free State.

On Friday evening, as the sun set, a genuine bushveld campfire was lit in the lapa beneath the massive Acacia tree. The drinks helped ease the conversation among the visitors before dinner was served. The discussions continued late into the night as everyone unwound and let go of the city's stresses.

On Saturday morning, numerous visiting pilots rose early to witness the stunning Mpumalanga sunrise from the sky, returning afterward for a hearty breakfast once more served in the lapa.

By the time everyone finished breakfast, the number of visiting aircraft had increased to forty-one. Fortunately, many visitors brought tents and camped next to their aircraft since all the chalets were occupied.

The weather gods truly favored us this weekend, with hardly a cloud in the sky and not a whisper of wind. Many visiting pilots made the most of the excellent weather to explore the Lowveld, with its stunning waterfalls and escarpment.

Santjie White, known as the guardian angel of aviators in South Africa, delivered a safety presentation emphasizing the importance of clear communication during flights and seeking assistance in emergencies. Even Bacon van der Hoof, who had traveled to Pyramid with Santjie and Jean-Michele, paid close attention to her talk. Hopefully, the message resonated with the audience, and they gained knowledge that could potentially save their lives in the future.

By late afternoon, everyone had come back for another evening filled with fun, laughter, and camaraderie around the campfire. Braai packs were available for purchase, and everyone grilled their own meat, complementing it with the side dishes provided by Peter and his team. It turned out to be a very enjoyable evening once more.

Sunday morning greeted everyone with beautiful weather once more, and the pilots made the most of it by embarking on an early morning flight. Breakfast was served, and many visiting pilots, now feeling quite at home, joined in to help prepare the meal.

Then it was time to depart from this beautiful place and return home to the "Ratrace". Peter, Paul, Pam, Brian, and the rest of the team, thank you for another fantastic weekend. It's the dedication of people like you that makes aviation events truly special.

Please browse the gallery for photos of attending aircraft