Rand Airport hosts celebration for MAF’s 80 years of service
Each year, MAF provides crucial support by transporting medical supplies, relief, and personnel to over 400 organizations in inaccessible regions, transforming lives through practical acts of faith and service.
The historic Rand Airport in Germiston was the perfect venue to celebrate 80 years of impactful service.
Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) marked this monumental milestone, highlighting eight decades of connecting the world’s most isolated communities with hope, help, and love.
Founded in 1945 by a group of World War II pilots who envisioned using aviation for good, MAF has grown into a vital global lifeline. Each year, it provides essential aviation support to over 400 mission agencies, churches, and humanitarian organizations in some of the most inaccessible regions on earth.
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MAF plays a crucial role in transporting medical supplies, emergency relief, teachers, pastors, and patients—often to communities unreachable by road. Without its fleet of small aircraft and skilled pilots and engineers, many missions would never reach those they serve.
“This is more than a celebration of aviation; it’s a celebration of impact, faith, and transformed lives,” said an MAF spokesperson at the Rand Airport event.
The gathering brought together staff, partner organizations, and supporters from across South Africa and beyond.
Over the decades, MAF has remained true to its mission: sharing the love of Christ in practical, tangible ways. Its vision extends further, which is to see isolated communities engaged, served, and developed.
Maxine Holman from MAF explained that aviation is not just a mode of transport but a ministry.
“Behind every takeoff is a story of transformation: a mother receiving emergency medical care, a child gaining access to schooling, or a pastor reaching a village that has never heard the gospel,” she shared.
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MAF credits its longevity and impact to the grace of God and the dedication of its faithful staff, skilled pilots, and global partners, many serving in difficult and even dangerous conditions.
Missionaries Moriah and Tobias Meyer, currently in Chad, shared the meaningful work MAF continues to do.
“To have a lasting impact in these regions requires more than planes. It takes passion, prayer, and a deep love for people—and we are blessed to have that in abundance,” said Tobias Meyer.
Looking ahead, MAF’s commitment remains unchanged: to be well-equipped and ready to serve wherever needed, ensuring no one is too far, too remote, or too forgotten to experience the love of Christ.
Guests enjoyed a tour of the beautiful planes at Rand Airport and shared a moment of cake cutting to celebrate 80 years of service.
