Aviation fans pumped up after Newcastle Air Show
History was made with another first for air shows in the country and the Newcastle Air Show, when the African Charter Boeing 737-200 flew in formation with the Goodyear Eagles civilian air crafts.
“The 4th Annual Newcastle Airshow was a huge success,” said Johan Pieters of Champ Marketing. “We are still waiting on the final count, but we can safely say thousands again flocked to the event to witness some of the best aviators in the country doing their thing.”
A new public entrance made for easier access to the viewing areas, which the organisers considered a big positive. During the lunch hour, visitors were allowed to access the runway, to get up close and personal with the planes, the pilots and the excitement.
“Keeping to our theme for this year, the organisers gave 1 500 learners free tickets to enjoy the airshow,” said Mr Pieters. “We also gave tickets to Thembelihle Shelter, Morester Kinderhuis and Nil Desperandum, as a Co-operative Social investment, and to provide some much needed entertainment for our less privileged residents.”
History was made with another first for air shows in the country and the Newcastle Air Show, when the African Charter Boeing 737-200 flew in formation with the Goodyear Eagles civilian air crafts. The rumbling of the Boeing’s engines along with the drone of the lighter aircraft was spectacular to behold.
The machine against machine race had the Mercedes Benz A45 pitted against Neville Ferreira in his Slick 540. Spectators were on the edge of their seats as the car and plane swept up and down the runway, in excess of 200km/h.
“Nigel Hopkins also had the crowd in awe of his spectacular skill,” said Mr Pieters. “He is considered one of the best pilots South Africa has ever seen, and it is clear why when you see him fly his plane.”
The Bush Air segment was action packed with explosions and skillful maneuvers, keeping the crowds guessing.
The children were entertained by the Bearded Lady team from Durban, and the Durban North Beach Sand Sculptures team. The Spur Kiddies Corner also provided lots of fun activities for the younger generation.
“We had a section next to the runway allocated as the KFC viewing area,” said Mr Pieters. “It turned out to be a huge success, providing spectators with shelter from the amazing weather conditions.”
The organisers would like to emphasise that although the Newcastle Air Show is part of thec, the Newcastle Air Show only receives sponsorship from the tour, and is not fully paid for like the other air shows that form part of the tour, for example the Dundee and Ladysmith shows. Also, the Newcastle show is a category A Air Show, while Dundee and Ladysmith fall under the C category.
“A huge thank you to all our sponsors, without who none of this would have been possible,” said Mr Pieters. “We are already looking forward to the fifth Annual Newcastle Air Show in 2015. This time around, spectators will see more than just planes – watch this space to find out more about the big plans we have for next year.”
See links below for related articles:
Glen Dell Tribute – Red Bull Aerobatics Pilot
