Kempton Park learner takes flight with first solo flight

For Hoërskool Kempton Park Grade 11 learner Keanu Theo Maartens, becoming a pilot is no longer just a childhood dream after he recently completed his first solo flight.

The Kempton Park resident is currently undertaking his flight training at Central Flying Academy (CFA), based at Rand Airport, having started in May 2025 while continuing his schoolwork.

Completing his first solo flight also earned Maartens his first pilot stripe, which he proudly received in June.

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“Receiving my first stripe felt like completing the first chapter of my journey in aviation,” he said.
Maartens said the experience was initially nerve-wracking.

“At first, I felt a little panicked when I realised I was completely on my own. But once I was in the air, that feeling quickly disappeared, and I felt an incredible sense of freedom and confidence,” he said.

The young aviation enthusiast said his passion for flying is linked to his long-standing desire to see the world.

Although he has travelled to various destinations in South Africa, Maartens said he has always wanted to explore beyond the country’s borders and experience other parts of the world.

For now, however, his focus is on completing his schooling and flight training.

One of his biggest challenges has been balancing his school examinations with his pilot examinations. He flies on weekends and dedicates about an hour each day to studying for his aviation exams.

He said developing a consistent routine has helped him manage both commitments.

Completing his first solo flight gave Maartens a renewed sense of confidence as he works towards obtaining his Private Pilot Licence (PPL).

“I felt an incredible sense of relief and accomplishment knowing that I could finally fly a plane on my own, without any assistance,” he said.

Once he obtains his PPL, Maartens hopes to explore more of South Africa by air before pursuing a career in commercial aviation.

His long-term ambition is to become an airline pilot and one day fly for an international carrier such as Qatar Airways.

After completing school, he plans to become a flight instructor while gaining further experience and working towards his ultimate goal of becoming an airline pilot.

Maartens credits his parents for supporting him throughout his journey and said their encouragement has played an important role in helping him pursue his aviation ambitions.

He also hopes his experience will encourage other young people to pursue their own goals.

“To all the young learners out there, my message is simple: never give up on your dreams.

“There will be highs, and there will be lows, but with determination, hard work and perseverance, you can achieve anything you set your mind to,” he said.