Attempt at a world record:

Attempt at radio control record

Much publicised before the event the attempt by the local radio control aircraft flying community did took place around mid-day. Unfortunately the wind played havoc but they did manage to launch 26 aircraft out of 33 for the attempt to have all of them airborne for a period of more than 3 minutes and 15 seconds. It was a credible attempt given the prevailing high wind although way short of the 50 aircraft needed for the world record.

Braam van Rooyen displayed both the King Air C90 and Jetranger which belongs to a local construction company. Perhaps the best display of the day was performed by Mike Weingartz in the only civilian registered Impala Mk1. As the only jet display of the day he elected to perform a sedated show given the high wind but experience was very apparent in his routine. Despite a slower pace the aircraft at no time looked sloppy neither was the aircraft jerked during the routine to correct pilot input. In all a pleasure to watch this very smooth and polished routine performed by a very experienced and professional pilot.

Ex-Mazda ZOOM Zoom - new colour scheme

Cessna 402C

Great excitement was once again caused by the motorbike versus ZLin 50 aerobatic aircraft. JJ Straus from the Corne’ Meintjies racing team raced against the ZLin 50 piloted by Barry Eales. The ZLin 50, ZS-WWJ made its public debut in the new colour scheme having previously served as part of the Mazda ZOOM Zoom team. Elton Bondi also attended in the Soviet Jeans sponsored Pitts. Another ZLin 50 sponsored by RIPP It (a local IT company) with its regular pilot Warren Haslam performed a credible display. Perhaps the most unusual aircraft which also took part in the flying routines was a CESSNA 402C. This aircraft was one of the last thirteen examples made and is the only airworthy example in South Africa. It was displayed by Andre Badenhorst.

Gallery Opens in new window.