The South African airshow circuit for 2005 opened with the first significant airshow staged on Saturday 30 April at Wonderboom Aerodrome near Pretoria. This was presented as part of the EAASA (Experimental Aircraft Association of South Africa) fly-inn & convention. A large number of aircraft attended the fly-inn ranging from ex-military types, civilian aircraft, and helicopters to actual home built aircraft. In addition various local aerospace companies exhibited products specific for the experimental aircraft and aviation enthusiast.

The actual airshow was opened by the Executive Mayor of Tshwane, Father Smangaliso Mkhatshwa . Aspects of the Executive Mayor’s address featured a brief history of the Wonderboom Aerodrome, current programmes to address previously disadvantaged groups in aviation and the programme to instate International status for the Wonderboom Aerodrome. Lastly all visitors were welcomed to the event. At around midday saw a crowd of 45000 through the entrance gates.

Probably the largest SA Flag.

Most airshows in SA are opened by skydivers and Wonderboom was no exception but a new feature was the streaming of possibly the largest new Sout African flag ever exhibited in this fashion. It was immediately followed by a Mirage III BZ, an SAAF Museum aircraft, painted in the colours of the new SA Flag. The Mirage III BZ is the only airworthy Mirage III B in the world and is piloted by SA airshow legend Glen Warden.

Wonderboom also saw the launch of a souvenir book “Airshow South Africa – 2005” by Frans Dely & Hayley Horan. The book’s main aim is to further aviation awareness in South Africa by featuring the various display acts (aircraft & aircrew) normally seen at SA airshows. Perhaps the best aspect is the price. At only R50.00 is affordable by everyone and no, it does not lack in quality – being in colour throughout. Mainly photos by Frans Dely are featured in the book. The general public is encouraged to take the books to the various airshows during the 2005 display season to have them signed by the various aircrews. By purchasing the book, one is entered into a draw to win a flip in a Pitts Special or a year’s subscription to Aviation Dimention.com. The grand prize of a flip in the Aviation Dimension sponsored L39 Jet will be drawn at the Ysterplaat airshow on 04 December 2005.