By Garth Calitz

Wonderboom Airport became a hive of activity on Sunday, 29 October, with well over one hundred and twenty visiting aircraft, including "Weightshift" trikes and Gyro copters, which rarely visit this busy airport.

The event was organized by The Wonderboom Interest Group in collaboration with Blue Chip Flight School, Wanna Fly, Tshwane Metro, and Villa San Giovanni, aiming to attract more visitors to the Airport.

Unfortunately, the weather wasn't as accommodating as the team at Wonderboom, leading to many of the 170 registered pilots not arriving. However, those who did make the journey were certainly not disappointed.

Christian Maiorana and his team provided an outstanding buffet breakfast at Villa San Giovanni, priced at just R50 for visiting pilots and R89 for passengers. Wonderboom also waived landing, passenger, and approach fees for all registered aircraft. Avgas and JatA1 were offered at nearly half price, with a limit of one hundred and fifty liters per aircraft. The refuelers were kept extremely busy throughout the morning, as nearly every aircraft that landed took advantage of these prices and refueled.

Several classic aircraft were placed on static display just outside the terminal building, including the Rovos Rail Convair 440. The craftsmanship of this aircraft is exquisite, both inside and out.

Paramount's AHRLAC (Advanced High-Performance Reconnaissance Light Aircraft) was also showcased, and this aircraft is set to establish South Africa as a leading military aircraft manufacturer.

The Harvard Club of South Africa transported two of their T6 Harvards from their base at AFB Zwartkop. Throughout the morning, they offered introductory flights to many individuals, as these classic warbirds continue to captivate aviation enthusiasts.

Encouraging GA pilots from smaller airfields to fly into controlled airspace is beneficial, as it will undoubtedly help them become more confident and reduce their uncertainty in busy airspace.

A special acknowledgment is due to the Air Traffic Controllers for their outstanding work in managing the excessive traffic, all while continuing to accommodate their usual IFR and airline operations.

Since this will be an annual event, I strongly encourage everyone to participate and have fun next year.

Please browse through our Gallery of this event

#Flyin #Wonderboom