Sling - We're heading to Aero Club Airweek and we would love for you to join us.
The Bateleurs Newsletter February 2026.
Illegal aircraft flights over MTPA reserves are prohibited.
ADEPT - honouring our founder.
AERO 2026 kick off in a strong market environment with record participation.
Celebrating America's 250th Anniversary at AirVenture 2026.
Embraer redefines the private flight experience with new Praetor 600E and Praetor 500E.
AV Receives $186 Million U.S. Army delivery order for next-generation switchblade systems.
This week in history - Death of Cristoffel Johannes “Boetie” Venter, South African WWI fighter ace, Director-General of the SAAF during WWI.
Worldwide Incidents and Accidents
Bonus video - EAA Chapter 322 Silver Creek Pancake Fly In
Sling - We're Heading to Aero Club Airweek and We Would Love for You to Join Us
We're heading to Aero Club Airweek from Friday 6th March to Sunday 8th March, and we'd love for you to join Team Sling for an unforgettable weekend of flying, camping and good company. The official event runs from Thursday 5th to 8th March, but we'll be flying in on Friday and setting up camp for a full Sling weekend experience.
We'll be bringing along our Sling TSi and Sling High Wing for demo flights, so if you're serious about owning your very own, this is your chance to experience the difference firsthand. Be sure to sign up and register in advance to secure your slot! In addition, we're bringing the Sling pool along for anyone keen to cool off between flights so, bring your cozzies!
Over and above what we have to offer, Airweek promises an incredible aviation line-up all in one place - light sport aircraft, hot air balloons, classic and vintage aircraft, new tech aircraft, helicopters, motor gliders, skydivers, paragliders, microlights and gyrocopters operating across different disciplines. It's going to be aviation heaven.
What you can expect at Airweek:
o STOL competition.
o Static display competition.
o Aircraft judging competition.
o SAPFA fun rally.
o SAMAA display and activity with a scholar's education program.
o PASA will be skydiving.
o BAFSA will be present with a hot air balloon.
o Puma Lions Harvard's.
o MISASA will host a spot landing competition for arrivals on Saturday morning.
o Presentations, workshops, and discussion.
Accommodation options are flexible:
o Book accommodation in town (shuttles will be available).
o Bring your own tent and camp with us.
o Book a tent in advance through Aero Club.
Catering options:
o Breakfasts and lunches will be available at the airfield from vendors.
o Enjoy a braai Friday night at R200 per person through Aero Club.
o Saturday night will be a relaxed awards dinner at R285 per person (no dress code - just good vibes).
For further information, please read the complete Aero Club mailer provided in the link below and contact them directly should you require any assistance. They will gladly help with any queries regarding bookings, accommodation, or event details. Please also remember to book your attendance as this is vital for planning purposes.
We can't wait to see you there - let's make this Airweek one to remember
The Bateleurs Newsletter February 2026
Message from Steve and our Board. Hi Friends of The Bateleurs, Pilots and Followers. Welcome to another 'Bats e-News' and this one is brimming with feedback/editorials/missions flown and good news all around.
We ended 2025 with an uncomfortably low number of missions and this is the ebb and the flow of the tide we guess. Nevertheless, you will be pleased to learn that we have launched 2026 with a nice flurry of missions, where in the first month of 2026 we have completed the equivalent of 1/3rd of last year's total mission count and the pending missions/inquiries register is brimming. What a great start!
In this same 2026 kick-off period we have had four new pilot members enrolled and we welcome Dewald Greyling (Grand Central), Stuart Beach (Howick), Dewald Vorster (Stellenbosch), and Chris Aberdein (Cape Town) - it's great to have you good fellows in our 'Environmental Airforce' and we look forward to seeing you out on a Bateleurs Mission.
This e-News has three great Mission feedback stories to share and I'm sure that you will love reading along.
• We had a Huge 250kg lion relocation from Eastern Cape to Zululand, flown by Colin Whittaker of ACE Jet and on board was social media influencers Ivan Carter and Brooke Carter and their own social media channels are showing 'reads' in the 100's of thousands and we thank Ivan for this vitally needed and fantastic Bateleurs exposure.
• Another mission feedback tells of a very successful follow-up to our earlier August Zululand Vulture Survey and where our super generous KZN pilot Martin Schulze provided the heli flying where they fitted trackers to the previously identified vulture chicks. More in the story below.
• The 3rd feedback is that of a rushed mission, where you good pilot fellows would not even have seen a Call-up, as this was dealt with as an emergency. It was a suspected oil slick threatening the KZN South Coast and in need of being pinpointed, where the slick can be 'corralled' and degreased, before it makes landfall and the associated environmental damage. 'We' found nothing of concern, but that is in fact a good thing.
Thanks for reading along and as always, our greatest thanks goes to our volunteer pilots - a salute to you.
Keep well and happy landings,
Steve and The Bateleurs Board
Illegal Aircraft Flights Over MTPA Reserves are Prohibited
The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) has noted with serious concern that certain charter companies, aircraft owners, and lodges are advertising and conducting scenic flights with picnics, and other adventure flights over nature reserves under MTPA management. These include, among others, the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve and the Loskop Dam Nature Reserve.
MTPA has also received reports from reserve managers of private and commercial aircraft flying at very low altitudes over protected areas. In some instances, these flights appear to be recreational “joy rides,” while in others, commercial pilots may be using the shortest routes between aerodromes actions that remain unlawful without proper authorization.
The Mpumalanga Nature Conservation Act (Act 10 of 1998) is explicit on this matter. It prohibits aircraft from flying within, closer to, or lower than 1,500 feet above the highest point of land within a nature reserve unless the pilot or operator holds a valid permit issued by the Agency. Permits are subject to strict conditions, including environmental assessments and recommendations by the responsible ecologist, the reserve manager, and other relevant stakeholders.
Furthermore, no flights are permitted during peak breeding seasons of any bird or animal species within MTPA managed land. Aircraft operations must not endanger or disturb people, wildlife, or birds, and night flying is prohibited unless expressly authorized in a permit. Aircraft may only land at designated sites and must adhere strictly to approved flight routes and conditions.
These permit requirements also apply to Remote Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), commonly known as drones.
Flying within restricted airspace over MTPA protected areas specifically below 1,500 feet above the highest point of a reserve and, in the case of the Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains World Heritage Site, below 2,500 feet above the highest point within its boundaries, constitutes an offence. Such violations are also recognised by the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA), which has assisted MTPA in enforcing the law and issuing fines to pilots who have flown without the necessary permits.
Landing an aircraft or entering land without the owner's prior approval (preferably in writing) is unlawful and constitutes trespassing. Similarly, unauthorized flight within the protected airspace of a reserve is regarded as trespassing. Where an aircraft lands in a reserve without authorization, and without a valid reason, both the pilot and passengers may be arrested and charged.
In addition, aircraft used in the commission of an offence may be seized by the State in terms of the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977, which allows for the confiscation of objects believed to be involved in unlawful activities.
The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency issues a strong warning: any person or company found operating aircraft over MTPA managed protected areas without the required permission and permits will be prosecuted.
Further details of the legislations can be found on the below links:
https://www.mtpa.co.za/files/MPB-Act.pdf and
ADEPT - Honouring Our Founder
It is with heartfelt sadness that we share the passing of our founder, Richard Schulz after a long illness.
Although he was no longer actively involved in day-to-day operations, his vision, insight, and passion for the products he developed continue to inspire us all.
His legacy will forever be a part of our company's journey. The entire team extends our deepest condolences to his family during this difficult time. We are grateful for his enduring impact and will honor his memory in everything we do.
Thank you, Richard, for your remarkable contributions. You will be missed dearly.
AERO 2026 Kicks Off In a Strong Market Environment with Record Participation
AERO (April 22-25, 2026), the leading international tradeshow for general aviation, business aviation, and air sports, will take place in a positive market environment.
The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), which represents the vast majority of general aviation aircraft manufacturers, has now published its production and sales figures for the past year. According to these figures, a total of 3,230 new aircraft and 938 new civil helicopters were delivered to customers worldwide in 2025. This represents an increase of 2.2% for aircraft and a slight decline of 1.9%*t for helicopters compared to 2024. Aircraft manufacturers reported a 16.1% jump in sales to a total of US$31 billion, while helicopter manufacturers reported a 5.5% increase in sales to US$4.7 billion despite lower deliveries.
“The state of the general aviation manufacturing industry remains steadfast. We continue to see robust numbers of total aircraft delivered as well as annual billings eclipsing $35 billion, the highest it has ever been. While some segments are seeing marginal declines in deliveries, they are all still above 2019 levels. As manufacturers work hard to meet the challenges and demand of today, they remain focused on advancing safety and innovation for the future of the entire aviation industry,” said James Viola, GAMA President and CEO.
Tobias Bretzel, Show Director AERO at fairnamic GmbH, said: "The positive mood in the industry is also reflected in the bookings for AERO 2026. We currently have more than 25 percent more exhibitors registered than we did at the same point in time for 2025. All major manufacturers of general aviation aircraft, including Textron Aviation, Cirrus Aircraft, Diamond Aircraft, Piper Aircraft, Tecnam, Elixir Aircraft, Robin Aircraft, and others, will be showcasing their products at AERO, offering visitors a comprehensive overview of the current range of products on offer. Many manufacturers will be presenting world, European, and AERO premieres at AERO."
Business aviation will be represented at AERO this year on a scale never seen before. The AERO Business Aviation Show Hub, with the modern, spectacular Business Aviation Dome at its heart, will be enlarged compared to last year due to high demand. In addition to Halls A2 and A3, Business Aviation companies will for the first time also showcase their products and services in Hall A1. The exhibition will be further complemented by joint stands hosted by national and international associations, including the German Business Aviation Association (GBAA), the Austrian Business Aviation Association (ABAA), the International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA), the Air Charter Association (ACA), and many other partners.
Celebrating America's 250th Anniversary at AirVenture 2026
The heritage, innovation, and technological advances of aviation in the United States over the past century will be part of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026, EAA's annual fly-in convention, on July 20-26 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.
“'Celebrating the Freedom of Flight' will focus on the unique role aviation has played in America's progress since that first flight of the Wright brothers in 1903,” said Rick Larsen, EAA's vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions. “Be it innovations by individuals or colossal accomplishments by the nation's companies and our military, America's leadership role in the progress of flight has been a remarkable part of our nation's history that we'll celebrate at Oshkosh.”
That focus at AirVenture will cover the more than 120 years since the first flights at Kitty Hawk, starting with the “Pioneers of Flight” exhibits and program covering powered aviation's first 25 years, to the latest fighter jets, unmanned aircraft, and spaceflights that showcase cutting-edge technology. That theme will be represented on the main Boeing Plaza ramp and during the daily air shows, as well as in evening programming at Theatre in the Woods and at the Fly-In Theatre.
In addition, individual areas at EAA AirVenture will feature unique aspects of America's preeminent role in aviation. That includes the remarkable civilian aviation progress represented by the “Class of '46” general aviation aircraft in the Vintage area and red, white, and blue paint schemes on amateur-built aircraft on the grounds.
“We see this theme evolving over the next several months as the showcase of American ingenuity through the decades comes together at Oshkosh,” Larsen said. “While the EAA fly-in convention has always been the gathering place for every segment of aviation, 2026 promises to be an unforgettable display of what aviation has meant to our nation and to the world at large.”
Further details on aircraft and activities in support of this theme will be announced as they are finalized.
Embraer Redefines the Private Flight Experience with New Praetor 600E and Praetor 500E
Embraer (B3: EMBJ3 / NYSE: EMBJ) today unveiled the next-generation Praetor 600E and Praetor 500E, marking the first evolution of the Praetor family. The new aircraft introduce fully reimagined cabins that transform the private flight experience, maximizing the longer missions these aircraft are capable of flying. With these enhancements, the new Praetors represent the next era for private aviation as aircraft become tools to enhance productivity, connection, and performance.
The Praetor 600E introduces industry-first cabin technology with a 42-inch, 4K OLED touchscreen Smart Window™, an optional feature offering a new level of functionality and productivity. This Embraer-exclusive cabin technology enables video conferencing, high-resolution video streaming, and provides a real-time view via three externally-mounted cameras. With the option to configure a divan across from the Smart Window™, the cabin becomes an ideal setting to host meetings, watch movies, play video games, and more.
Both aircraft are equipped with a new Cabin Management System (CMS), as well as enhanced in-flight entertainment and lighting. The new CMS provides passengers with more intuitive control of the cabin environment via multiple interfaces, including a new app experience, able to adjust temperature, airflow, lighting, video playback, and audio. Seamless connectivity is supported by Bluetooth audio and wireless charging, while the all-new Smart Switch panels provide easy access to individualized seat controls. Voice commands and RGB mood lighting come as optional integrations. The upper valance has been re-engineered and includes new upper tech panels and ambient air system.
“In 2018, we introduced the Praetor family-named to embody their mission of 'leading the way'-and we delivered on that promise, setting a new benchmark with the most advanced midsize and super-midsize jets ever built,” said Michael Amalfitano, President and CEO of Embraer Executive Jets. “Their success ushered in a new era for Embraer, and today we are redefining the entire business aviation industry by introducing innovations never before seen in this segment. We are proud to unveil the Praetor 600E and Praetor 500E, elevating the private flight experience with smarter, more intuitive jets designed for the next generation of private travelers.”
The seating has also been completely re-engineered and manufactured by Embraer to serve extended comfort on longer flight missions. This includes configurable cushion firmness, dual lumbar support, forward-tracking headrest, increased legroom, and electric-assist release for smoother seat movements. A redesigned berthing process enables quicker transitions for rest, while a dedicated lounge position enhances relaxation on long flights.
In addition to these improvements, the galley on the Praetor 600E and refreshment center on the Praetor 500E have been redesigned for the potential to serve more meals on extended missions. This translates to increased volume in terms of storage, disposal, ice drawer, and more.
Both aircraft feature Embraer's comprehensive avionics suite, including class-exclusive full fly-by-wire with active turbulence reduction and Embraer Enhanced Vision System (E2VS). Adding advanced protection and peace of mind, both jets now include Embraer's Runway Overrun Awareness and Alerting System (ROAAS). Together, these technologies reduce pilot workload, improve situational awareness, and contribute to smoother flights while expanding operational flexibility to more destinations.
AV Receives $186 Million U.S. Army Delivery Order for Next-Generation Switchblade Systems
AeroVironment, Inc. (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV), a global leader in autonomous systems and precision strike solutions, today announced receipt of a $186 million delivery order from the U.S. Army for Switchblade® 600 Block 2 and Switchblade® 300 Block 20 explosively formed penetrator (EFP) loitering munition systems.
The order was issued under the Army's existing five-year, $990 million Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract for Lethal Unmanned Systems (LUS), which was awarded in August 2024. This delivery order marks the U.S. Army's first procurement of AV's next-generation Switchblade product line, underlining a significant step forward in fielding advanced, precision loitering munitions across infantry and manoeuvre formations. It is the Army's first Switchblade order containing EFP payload, delivering enhanced lethality against armoured threats.
“This delivery order reflects the Army's confidence in the next evolution of the Switchblade family and its relevance to modern, contested battlefields,” said Brian Young, Senior Vice President of Loitering Munitions at AV. “Switchblade 600 Block 2 and Switchblade 300 Block 20 build on years of combat experience while delivering meaningful upgrades in autonomy, resilience, and lethality tailored to today's operational demands.”
Switchblade 600 Block 2 is AV's most advanced long-range loitering munition to date, designed for multi-domain operations and ruggedized for maritime and highly contested environments. Developed in collaboration with United States Special Operations Command (SOCOM), the system features upgraded avionics and advanced Automatic Target Recognition (ATR), enabling faster detection, identification, and engagement of threats. Integrated resilient communications, including Silvus MANET radios, support distributed operations and extended handoff ranges, while improved navigation and mission resilience allow effective employment in GPS-challenged environments. These upgrades provide commanders with increased reach, flexibility, and confidence against armoured and high-value targets.
Switchblade 300 Block 20 introduces a new modular payload capability to the combat-proven, backpackable loitering munition. For the first time, the Army has procured the system with an Explosively Formed Penetrator (EFP) payload, delivering enhanced lethality against armoured threats while retaining the speed, portability, and ease of use that have made Switchblade 300 a trusted solution at the small-unit level. The Block 20 configuration also includes sensor improvements, enhanced user interfaces, and extended range options, allowing rapid, precision effects beyond line of sight.
Together, the Switchblade 600 Block 2 and Switchblade 300 Block 20 provide the Army with a scalable family of precision loitering munitions-from lightweight, single-operator systems to long-endurance, multi-domain capabilities-designed to operate seamlessly across echelons and mission sets.
“This delivery order further advances the Army's Lethal Unmanned Systems Directed Requirement and reinforces AV's role as the leading provider of combat-proven loitering munitions systems,” said Young. “As we continue to invest in expanding Switchblade manufacturing capacity and accelerating delivery timelines, we are continuing to meet the growing demand for these products from U.S. and allied forces.”
20 FEBRUARY 1977
Death of Cristoffel Johannes “Boetie” Venter, South African WWI fighter ace, Director-General of the SAAF during WWI and later, director of South African Airways.
Cristoffel Johannes “Boetie” Venter was born in November 1892. He joined the 7th Mounted Rifles in 1912, then the 5th SAMR, in August 1914 for service in South West Africa. He joined 1 South African Infantry Battalion
In 1916, as a member of the 1 South African Infantry Battalion, he served in France until he transferred to the Royal Flying Corps in February 1917. He was shot down and captured in 1918. He won the DFC and bar and was credited with 16 aerial victories.
During his career, he was Awarded Order of the Bath UK, the Companion of the Order of the Bath, the UK DFC, the UK Distinguished Flying Cross and Bar, the Greek Order of the Phoenix and the Belgium Military Cross.
In 1922, after the war, he joined the South African Air Force where he commanded 1 Squadron SAAF and served as Officer Commanding Wits Command in 1936 as Major General.
He was Director-General of the Air Force from 1940 to 1945. After World War II, he was managing director of South African Airways.
USA, Pensacola Regional Airport, FL (PNS/KPNS): A Diamond DA42 Twin Star, N68MJ, made a gear-up landing on ruway 26 at Pensacola, FL (PNS). The pilot reportedly encountered difficulties getting the right hand main gear to extend for landing. Attempts to rectify the issue were fruitless and the pilot decided to perform a gear-up landing. Shortly before touchdown the pilot shut down both engines.
Russia, Saint Petersburg-Pulkovo Airport (LED/ULLI): Rossiya flight SU6404, an Airbus A320-214, skidded off the icy taxiway at Pulkovo. After landing and vacating runway 10R, while taxiing along taxiway B to stand 711, the aircraft stopped responding to brake pedal inputs, nose landing gear steering inputs, and braking. The pilots felt the aircraft pull to the right, and were unable to stop the aircraft within the taxiway. Due to a lateral skid near Bravo 9, the Airbus A320 crossed the lateral boundary of the taxiway with its nose and main landing gear and came to a stop. The crew shut down the engines and reported the skid. All 138 passengers were disembarked as scheduled via air stairs through the forward left door and taken to the terminal; no one was injured. The aircraft was then towed to the apron. As a result of the skid, one nose landing gear tire and a taxiway light were damaged. An inspection of the scene revealed that the taxiway was covered with ice.
Kuwait, near Kuwait City: On 2 March 2026, a United States Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle was presumably mistakenly shot down as a result of friendly fire. Both the pilot and WSO were able to eject from the aircraft, and were retrieved by locals.
