Gautrain versus SAAF Alouette 2 Helicopter race sparks excitement at Midrand Station

The race followed a route from the Gautrain's Midrand Station to Centurion Station, pitting South Africa’s high-speed passenger train against the speed of the Alouette 2 helicopter, which ultimately finished first.

Comfort Makhanya

May 8, 2025

SAAF's Alouette 2 helicopter wins the race.

Early risers and adventure enthusiasts gathered at the Gautrain’s Midrand Station at 07:00 on April 30 for an exhilarating and friendly competition – the Gautrain versus South African Air Force’s (SAAF) Alouette 2 helicopter race.

This fun event served as a teaser for the upcoming SAAF Museum Air Show, held on May 3 at the Air Force Mobile Deployment Wing, formerly Air Force Base Swartkop.

The race traced a route from Midrand Station to Centurion Station, pitting South Africa’s high-speed passenger train against the speed of the Alouette 2 helicopter, which ultimately finished first.

Gautrain spokesperson Albi Modise speaks with chief of the SAAF Lieutenant General Wiseman Mbambo.

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Although the Alouette 2 reaches speeds of around 200km/h, the Gautrain travels at 160km/h, making the race a close and entertaining contest.

Chief of the SAAF Lieutenant General Wiseman Mbambo was on the Gautrain for the race, and he said that in the future, the race may be done a little differently, with multiple stages to give the participants a fair chance, as the Gautrain has to slow down when it reaches Centurion Station.

SAAF’s Alouette 2 helicopter wins the race.

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The race highlighted the Gautrain’s role in supporting the upcoming air show, offering complimentary bus transfers from Centurion Station to the air base, ensuring smooth access for spectators and reducing road congestion.

In a briefing after the race, Mbambo expressed enthusiasm for the air show. “The air show programme will feature a variety of flying activities, aerial displays, and aerobatics. Attendees will get the chance to view iconic SAAF aircraft and showcase South Africa’s aviation industry.”

Gautrain spokesperson Albi Modise and chief of the SAAF Lieutenant General Wiseman Mbambo before the Gautrain and Alouette 2 race. Photos: Comfort Makhanya

Gautrain spokesperson Albi Modise also shared his pride in the partnership, emphasising that Gautrain’s transport services are crucial in facilitating access to the air show, while helping to ease traffic challenges.

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