Fly-In Festival held at Barnstormers Model Flying Club

Aircraft lovers gathered at Barnstormers Model Flying Club in Kempton Park on August 16 for the annual Fly-In Festival.

The Irene Radio Flyers, in partnership with the South African Model Aircraft Association (SAMAA), hosted a successful show that left visitors amazed.

The day offered non-stop aviation action as a variety of model aircraft took to the skies. Families came out in numbers, and while entertainment was available for children, most little ones were just as captivated by the aircraft as their parents.

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Heinrich Weyers, who flew the JAS39 Gripen model, said his love for aviation runs in the family.

“I have always been in this hobby; it’s my biggest passion since childhood,” he said.

“My dad worked in the Air Force and taught me about aircraft and aviation. I’ve been flying model planes since I was nine years old. The weather can be tricky, and crashes are always a risk, but it’s all part of the learning process.”

Spectators were treated to demonstrations of different model aircraft, including the JAS39 Gripen and a Boeing 737-800. Before each flight, SAMAA provided the audience with background information about the aircraft and its pilot.

The Fly-In Festival is SAMAA’s official annual airshow, though other model flying clubs also host events throughout the year. Pilots taking part must hold a certain level of competency rating to ensure safety.

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Among the performers was Daniel Ralefeta, who flew the Boeing 737-800 model.

“This is my hobby, my passion,” he said. “I’ve been flying model planes for more than 15 years, but I also fly full-size aircraft. Crashes do happen and can mean the total loss of a plane in seconds, but that’s part of the experience.”

Families in attendance said the event provided a perfect outing. Michaela Myburgh, who attended with her family, said they made the most of the opportunity.

“About three weekends ago, we saw a smaller event here and thought our little boy, who loves planes, would enjoy it. That’s when we found out about the annual show. Events like these bring families together,” she said.

SAMAA management committee member Malan Moolman emphasised that safety is always the top priority.

“The main rule is that if there is something wrong with your plane, you fly it down away from the people, no matter how much it costs.

“Safety comes first. At the same time, we want to inspire the young ones, get them exposed to aviation, and hopefully see them become the pilots of the future,” Moolman said.