Milestones and generosity

Bethlehem in the south eastern Free State has, for many years, been known as a worthy airshow to attend. Organised by a dedicated group of enthusiasts from the Bethlehem flying club this airshow has seen many interesting displays in the past. As Bethlehem is a scant 2,5 hours or so from Johannesburg it is possible to drive down for a day trip.

The past airshows have traditionally been held during the South African mid winter season but this year saw a move to early spring. This move did affect the show a little as there had been some rain about and the day was overcast making photography a little difficult. In fact there was strong possibility of rain in the afternoon which fortunately did not hit the airfield. (I have heard mutterings that the BFC may move the show back to mid winter).

The Flying Legends Air Show does not have the romantic and exciting popularity of Farnborough and Oshkosh, but it is one of the biggest gatherings of vintage aircraft in Europe.  This year it took place on the weekend of 7 – 8th July at its usual venue, the Imperial War Museum, Duxford, in the eastern part of England.  It was organised by The Fighter Collection, one of the largest warbird operators in Europe.  The weather played along for part of the show every day, giving both cloudy and sunny conditions.  The show is run differently to our air shows in South Africa, in that it the flying only starts at 13:45 pm, giving the visitor’s time to visit all the sales stalls and museum halls in the morning.