Weather, Youth and Community - Aeroclub Airweek at Middelburg
By Jaco Pitout
08.03.2026
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The annual Aero Club Airweek took place this past weekend at Middelburg Airfield, bringing together aviation enthusiasts, pilots, industry representatives and young aspiring aviators for a few days of learning, flying and connection within the South African aviation community.
As has so often been the case in South African aviation lately, the weather played a central role. Departing from Pretoria early on Saturday morning, it was evident that the significant cut-off low pressure system that had moved across the country during the week was still disrupting what should have been mild autumn weather. The system brought widespread cloud, rain and poor flying conditions to large parts of South Africa. Unfortunately, this resulted in several participants being unable to make the trip to Middelburg. Despite these disruptions, the event continued with strong participation from those who were able to attend.
Special credit must go to Deon van der Mescht from Flying WX SA, who provided continuous weather updates and forecasts throughout the week. In conditions such as these, accurate and timely weather information becomes invaluable to pilots planning flights across the country.
Arriving at Middelburg Airfield on Saturday morning, it was clear that the rain had swept through the area the previous night, with some easy-up shades having taken the brunt of the heavy downpour. Much laughter rang through the air as those who had camped on the field overnight recounted their wet and windy experiences.
Riaan Struwig and his team from Apex were the first to take to the air to assess the conditions.
As the cloud slowly lifted, aircraft arrivals began trickling in.
Industry in Focus
Several exhibitors were present on the airfield during Airweek, showcasing their services and products to prospective customers and aviation enthusiasts.
Century Avionics brought an impressive display of the latest cockpit technology designed to enhance situational awareness, reduce pilot workload and improve flight safety. The display included Garmin avionics and aviation watches, as well as offerings from Bose and David Clark.
Aviation Direct has long been a staple for South African aviators. Their navigation planning application, together with their integrated weather platform, works seamlessly to assist pilots in preparing their flights. Their airfields directory has also proven to be a valuable resource for pilots requiring information on airfields across South Africa. Andrea Antel was kept very busy throughout the day!
When it comes to aviation insurance, it is vital that customer needs are addressed efficiently and effectively. The friendly team from Dennis Jankelow and Associates were on hand to provide important information to pilots and aircraft owners. Visitors to their stand were also invited to enjoy some cold refreshments - something that became very welcome as the Middelburg sun began to make its presence felt! My thanks to the team at DJA for rescuing me from dehydration. They also posed for a fun photo.
As a pilot, I understand the importance of having questions answered and your needs properly addressed when building a professional relationship. I recently joined Vektor as my preferred insurance broker and have found their service to be prompt, professional and friendly. Their stand also attracted a great deal of attention from visiting pilots and aircraft owners.
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Sling Aircraft brought a large measure of fun to Airweek, displaying three aircraft on their stand. These included the taildragger version of the Sling 2, the Sling TSi - finished in a spectacular pearlescent white and metallic red paint scheme - as well as the Sling High Wing.
All three aircraft were active throughout the day, with many fortunate visitors getting the opportunity to experience a flight. Judging by the smiles on their faces afterwards, these flights were clearly memorable experiences.
It was also my first opportunity to take a closer look at the Sling High Wing. Spending a few minutes examining the aircraft revealed exceptional fit and finish. Even small details, such as the aluminium seat backrest and pan assembly, reflect the level of quality and attention that goes into the construction of these aircraft.
Youth Development Takes Centre Stage
One of the most encouraging aspects of this year's event was the strong focus on youth development. Through initiatives run by the South African Aeromodelling Association (SAAMA) and the Experimental Aircraft Association's Young Eagles programme, learners from Sozama Secondary School and Sofunda Secondary School were given a unique opportunity to engage with the aviation community.
The learners participated in model-building activities, interacted with pilots and aviation professionals, and perhaps most exciting of all, had the chance to take to the skies in a variety of aircraft. For many of them it was their first experience of flight - an opportunity that could well ignite a lifelong passion for aviation.
Rob Jonkers and Martin Meyer with two excited learners
Smiles courtesy of Sling TSI
Ian Beaton with a happy learner Marie Reddy with representatives from the schools
Learning from Industry
Airweek also featured a series of informative talks and demonstrations from various industry participants.
Absolute Aircraft Sales presented an overview of the current aircraft sales market, sharing insights into trends and challenges within the aviation sector.
Comet Aviation Supplies provided a practical demonstration of an aircraft oil change - a reminder that behind every safe flight lies the discipline of proper maintenance.
Another particularly engaging presentation focused on aircraft accident site investigations, offering attendees insight into the careful and methodical processes involved in determining the causes of aviation incidents.
I attended an insightful technical discussion was delivered by David de Welzin from Goodyear, focusing on aviation tyres. Among the interesting points shared was the concept of the tyre “stretch period”, as well as the coloured dots found on aircraft tyres which ensure correct alignment with the valve during installation.
Perhaps surprisingly to some attendees, aviation tyres themselves do not have a strict time-based lifespan. However, correct storage conditions are essential to ensure their shelf life and continued serviceability.
Flying Lions Visit Middelburg
Adding to the aviation atmosphere was the presence of the Flying Lions Aerobatic Team, who displayed their iconic North American Harvard aircraft.
With the threat of deteriorating weather once again looming, the team departed directly for Rand shortly after completing their display.
Navigation Rally Excitement
One of the more engaging practical activities during the event was a navigation rally exercise organised by Protea Team pilots Iaan Myburgh and Tarryn Myburgh. Their enthusiasm for the sport of precision navigation is truly infectious, and they guided participants through the principles and challenges of this fascinating aviation discipline.
The rally was eventually won by the team from Sling Aircraft flying their impressive Sling TSi. Their flown track demonstrated exceptional accuracy and precision - a testament to both careful planning and disciplined flying.
The Role of Aviation Media
I also had a brief but valuable discussion with Richardt Lovett regarding the importance of aviation media at events such as Airweek.
Aviation gatherings rely on exposure, both to attract participation and to highlight the vitality of the aviation community. Media coverage helps share these stories with a broader audience, ensuring that the effort invested in organising such events reaches far beyond those present on the day.
Dinner and Judging
I was unfortunately not able to attend the evening's dinner and so missed the handover of the awards to those that entered their pride and joy to be judged by a panel of experts.
Vans RV 10 ZU-IKX, Best homebuilt aircraft, Owner, Mike Puzey
The People Behind the Event
Events such as Airweek do not happen without a tremendous amount of effort behind the scenes. While many individuals contributed to the success of the gathering, one person who stood out was Marie Reddy. Her energy and dynamism were evident throughout the event, and her enthusiasm helped bring the entire experience to life.
Despite the weather challenges, the spirit of South African aviation was once again on full display at Middelburg. Airweek served as a reminder that aviation is not only about aircraft and flying, but about community, mentorship and the shared passion that keeps the industry moving forward.
