Brian Emmenis Takes the Mic as Aviation Host for Red Bull Flugtag 2025

By Garth Calitz

Prepare for the return of the Red Bull Flugtag in South Africa this November! This exciting event, centred around human-powered flight, will feature one of the nation's most renowned aviation personalities. Brian Emmenis, the founder of the famous Capital Sounds broadcasting company, is slated to be the official aviation host for the 2025 Red Bull Flugtag at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town.

Emmenis, affectionately known as the "Voice of South African Airshows," brings 40 years of broadcasting expertise, showmanship, and a passion for aviation to one of Red Bull's most eagerly awaited events. His unique style, engaging storytelling, and vast aviation knowledge are set to infuse fresh energy into an event already celebrated for its blend of comedy, chaos and creativity.

Anyone who has been to an airshow in South Africa likely knows Brian Emmenis well. Since the mid-1980s, he has been the voice at almost every significant aviation event, from the Africa Aerospace and Defence Exhibition (AAD) to various local air festivals throughout the continent.

What started as a teenage interest in radio and aircraft developed into a lifelong career. In 1985, Emmenis established Capital Sounds, a company specialising in aviation broadcasting and commentary. Through a blend of technical skill and contagious enthusiasm, he revolutionised airshow narration in South Africa.

Brian with the Silver Falcons aerobatic team in the 80s

Under Brian's leadership, Capital Sounds became a symbol of high-fidelity sound, seamless coordination, and captivating storytelling. His team goes beyond simply announcing aircraft displays; they choreograph them. Every jet or radial roar and every aerobatic manoeuvre is synchronised with impeccably timed commentary, music and emotion. This skill in connecting pilots, aircraft and spectators has established Emmenis as one of the world's leading aviation commentators. Having Brian Emmenis at Red Bull Flugtag is a no-brainer. The event, which translates to "Flight Day" in German, is all about celebrating creativity and daring fun. Teams come up with their own flying contraptions, launch them off a six-meter platform over water, and see how far they can "fly" before taking a dive.

This year, Red Bull Flugtag makes its much-anticipated comeback to South Africa after over ten years. The previous local event took place in 2012, attracting tens of thousands of spectators to the V&A Waterfront. The 2025 event, set for 2 November, will once again transform Cape Town’s iconic harbour into a stage for flight, folly and fearless fun. Dozens of teams from across the country have been selected to compete, each bringing a handcrafted flying machine built from lightweight materials and powered by human energy, no engines allowed.

The competition values not just distance but also creativity and performance. True to Red Bull's style, costumes, music, and choreography are just as important as lift and drag.

Organisers say Emmenis’s inclusion will lend the event a deeper connection to aviation culture. “Brian brings authenticity and storytelling that bridge the worlds of real aviation and creative flight,” said a Red Bull representative. “He understands both the science and the spirit of flying and that’s exactly what Flugtag is about.”

Beyond his aviation career, Emmenis has built a legacy of community involvement and mentorship. He has trained dozens of young broadcasters and technicians through Capital Sounds, promoting professionalism and excellence in event communication.

His work has garnered numerous accolades, including recognition from the Aero Club of South Africa, South African Air Force Association and the South African Civil Aviation Authority for his contributions to the promotion of aviation. Despite these honours, he remains committed to his mission of sharing the marvel of flight with the public.