Andrew Blackwood-Murray: Tribute to a True Aviator and Good Friend

Garth Calitz
57 minutes ago
2 min read

By Garth Calitz

Andrew Blackwood-Murray was not merely a pilot; he was a true aviator who cherished every moment in the sky. I first encountered Andrew many years ago at the Harvard Club of South Africa, situated at Swartkop Airforce Base. He was one of the few pilots at the club who regularly engaged with the ground crew during their pre- and post-flight routines, consistently displaying his infectious smile.

We encountered each other once more when I began attending aerobatic competitions. Andrew was consistently advancing in the ranks, initially piloting his Zlin 50 and later the Extra 300L, both steadfastly supported by Nashua. In 2020, he secured the Intermediate Class National Championship and was persuaded to progress to the Advanced Class. In addition, Andrew tried to attend and perform at as many airshows as he possibly could.

Andrew kicked off his aviation journey by joining the South African Airforce, where he earned his wings. His love for Harvards really took root during his time at Central Flying School, Dunnottar, a love he nurtured to the end. After leaving the SAAF, Andrew moved on to fly with SAA, mostly piloting Boeing 737 cargo planes. He often joked that his passengers never complained about rough landings!

When SAA went belly-up, Andrew mostly survived on contract flying gigs with a few companies, including Africa Charter Airline, flying the Boeing 737. The inconsistent income was tough, and he even thought about selling his beloved Extra. Luckily, things turned around when he got a steady job at SAA flying the Airbus A320. For someone like Andrew, who lives for flying, being in the air was everything.

Andrew didn't just see flying as a job, it was his true passion. He was incredibly skilled at the controls, always professional, and his genuine excitement was contagious. Anyone lucky enough to watch him in action would never forget the precision, grace, and vibrant energy he brought to every performance.

We extend our sincere condolences to Kyla during this challenging time. Please find solace in knowing that Andrew profoundly impacted many lives and inspired a passion for aviation in numerous young minds and hearts. Those of us who had the privilege of calling Andrew a friend will forever cherish his memory. Rest in eternal peace, my friend. You will be missed.

Impressions of a Pilot

Flight is freedom in its purest form,

To dance with the clouds which follow a storm;

To roll and glide, to wheel and spin,

To feel the joy that swells within.

To leave the earth with its troubles and fly,

And know the warmth of a clear spring sky;

Then back to earth at the end of the day,

Released from the tensions which melted away.

Should my end come while I am in flight,

Whether brightest day or darkest night;

Spare me no pity and shrug off the pain,