By Garth Calitz

Every Saturday, aviators worldwide gather to take to the skies. In South Africa, we are particularly fortunate to enjoy excellent weather and stunning destinations scattered across our beautiful country. This Saturday, I had the privilege of being invited by retired SAA captain Karl Jensen for a flight in his stunning Cessna 170B.

We left Fly-inn shortly before 8:00 am, using the WK Pinedene route heading west until we exited Waterkloof Airspace, then turned south towards Johannesburg. Flying just west of Johannesburg's CBD reminded me of how fortunate we South Africans are to have the chance to fly so near a major city without needing prior authorization.

The radio was abuzz with aviators flying in every direction, all eager to take advantage of the excellent flying weather. Shortly after we departed from the Johannesburg area, Gregory Clegg joined us in the air with his magnificent Jodel D11, which is likely the most attractive Jodel in South Africa, if not the entire world.

The recent rainfall has greatly benefited the Vaal River region, with the river flowing robustly and the surrounding area appearing lush and green. Numerous boaters were out on the river, taking advantage of the splendid hot weather.

The rains have also initiated growth at Parys Airfield. Unfortunately, weeds have infiltrated the runway, giving the airfield a somewhat neglected appearance, but they do not pose any real danger to landing or departing traffic.

As is typical for a Saturday morning, Skydive Parys was bustling with activity. During our visit, three groups of jumpers were deployed using their former Rhodesian Air Force Aermacchi Trojan. The Trojan at Skydive Parys has been upgraded from the original 260hp Continental engine to a Walter Turbine, enhancing its performance as a jumpship.

Breakfast at the restaurant was decent; the service was somewhat slow, but thankfully, the prices have become more reasonable since the new owners took over. If you need fuel, the avgas price is comparable to most airfields, although there is a R60 weekend surcharge. This, combined with the R50 landing fees, can add up a bit.

While we were there, thirteen aircraft arrived, creating a delightful atmosphere as old friends gathered for a brief chat before leaving the home base, anticipating the discomfort of the approaching heatwave.

Gordon Dyne, who arrived in his distinctive Piper PA-28R-200 Cherokee, invited everyone to visit his "Man Cave" at Brakpan Airfield. Gordon's hangar is a treasure, and it's easy to mistake it for a museum.

We teamed up with Brain Appleton in his recently acquired Luscombe Silvaire. This aircraft had been inactive in a hangar for many years until Brian bought it and, with minimal maintenance, got it flying again. What a beautiful machine.

With temperatures soaring into the high 30s and the Density Altitude exceeding 8500 ft, a legendary Kitty Hawk milkshake was beckoning. During the brief flight from Brakpan to Kitty Hawk, we observed a massive "Whirlwind" causing chaos in the Daveyton squatter camp, tearing off roofs and sending debris soaring skyward. Kitty Hawk was bustling with its usual activity, and we were lucky to catch up with some good friends for a chat.

The flying days concluded with a swift return flight to Fly-inn. A special thanks to Karl and all the members of EAA Chapter 322 for an unforgettable day. I look forward to flying with you all again soon.

#EAA #Flyin