By Andre Venter
Aviators Paradise is one of the undiscovered gems for aviators in the Gauteng – North West area. The airfield is located next to the R512 between Hartbeespoort Dam and Brits, With its 850m tar runway at an elevation of 3800ft and a reactively short hop from anywhere in Gauteng its definitely an airfield that should be on your visit list.
Aviator's Paradise was developed and owned by Piet Smit and his loyal canine companion Piper. Piet also operated a flight school from Aviator's Paradise. When Piet tragically passed away the Janse Van Rensburg family bought Aviator's Paradise. Cecilia and her team have been managing the restaurant, accommodation and airfield since 2019. The closure of the R512, for the construction of the new road to Johannesburg and Covid lock-downs, have put a lot of pressure on them but all is good now and they are ready to welcome you with open arms.
The restaurant, named Piper & Piper Restaurant after both Piper the bullmastiff and the Piper aircraft standing outside next to the runway. The aircraft has become somewhat of a mascot and it was decided not to rebuild it, but rather to use it to educate the public.
Brits Boeremark has adopted Aviators as a home for their market days where a wide variety of goods are offered for sale. This was the second time Brits Boeremark have brought their wares to Aviators Paradise and the turnout is growing. Vintage Car clubs are invited to join the aircraft offering some wonderful photographic opportunities.
Gauteng Hang-gliding Club has made a home for themselves at Aviators Paradise, the hang-gliders are aero towed into the sky by a microlight, something that one doesn’t get to see every day, sadly no hang-gliders were operating on the day as the wind was a bit of a hazard.
Approximately 16 aircraft flew in for a morning of good food and maybe a little Christmas shopping, two of them from as far a Tzaneen. A highlight of the day was the arrival of a restored ex SAAF Alouette III, still sporting its SAAF livery.
Aviator's Paradise charges no landing fee's, although donations are very much appreciated to maintain the runway and surrounds to the great condition one finds them today. Hope to see you soon at Aviators Paradise quick coffee or delicious breakfast.
