A1 at the SAAF Museum Swartkops

Operations with the S-51 and in particular A1 were responsible for the establishment of a rotary wing component and a rotary wing training component within the SAAF. A1 also pioneered sea rescue by helicopter in SA. South Africa - due to its geographic nature is a physical demanding area for helicopter operations and operations within the SAAF let to South Africa emerging as a premier rotary wing operator both in peace time and in defence operations. Helicopter operations in South Africa led to the indigenous Rooivalk helicopter Combat Support System - regarded as the BEST in its class worldwide.

A1 at Stamford Hill

Rooivalk CSH - arguably the BEST

 
In sharp contrast with the technologically advanced nature of Rooivalk is the original S-51. A1 is remarkable to have survived accidents, rollovers, incidents, unfair criticism, the scrap yard and the elements both at the coast and on the Highveld to be preserved for future generations. It is currently a permanent static exhibit at the SAAF Museum Swartkops. The undercarriage wheels are raised off the floor. A1 lacks the hoist, extended exhaust used for spraying, tail rotor shaft cover, two of the canopy plexi-glass sections, cabin door, National markings and few other items to complete the exhibit. It is planned to have these items fitted as soon as funding permits. It is not capable of flight as it is too historic in value.

Due to its exploits and survivability around South Africa it is certainly worthy of our respect not only as the first helicopter to fly in SA but for every aspect A1 contributed as a pioneer in rotary flight within South Africa. A1 is not a Dragonfly but a Sikorsky built thoroughbred and therefore the correct designation is “S-51”.

A109s - the new LUH from 17 Sqdn

17 Squadron as our first helicopter Squadron still exists today and is based at Swartkops. It is currently equipped with the Oryx medium transport helicopter and is the first Sqdn to receive the new LUH - the Augusta A109 LUH SAAF at Sqdn level after the integration phase was completed at 87 HFS in Bloemfontein during 2006.   

Jan. 2007 - modern day rescue. Bk117 from 15 Sqdn B flight in a combined rescue with the NSRI at the Storms River mouth near Plettenberg Bay. A woman hiker had fallen down a rocky embankment in a near inaccessible area. The helicopter is the only option – note the superior piloting skills by balancing on the front part of skids to make the helicopter accessible to the rescue team.