POLOKWANE – Before the Springbok green-and-gold aircraft took to the skies over Cape Town and captivated South Africa with its daring flyover, its striking new look was created right here in Limpopo.

The Embraer jet, registration ZS-YAE, which carries the Springbok-inspired livery, was repainted at Polokwane International Airport in a process that took 29 days and used about 60 litres of paint across three coats, according to Engineering News.

A symbol of the Springbok brand

The aircraft has since become a familiar symbol of the Springbok brand, most recently featuring in an Airlink fly-past at Cape Town’s DHL Stadium during the Springboks’ match against the All Blacks.

Polokwane’s growing aviation capabilities

For Limpopo, the aircraft is also a reminder of the capabilities housed at Polokwane International Airport.

Managed by Gateway Airports Authority Limpopo (GAAL), the airport is positioning itself as a gateway for tourism, trade and logistics in the region.

Its location provides access to major Limpopo attractions, including:

• The Kruger National Park
• Mapungubwe World Heritage Site
• The Waterberg and its game farms and lodges

Limpopo also shares borders with Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique, placing the province in a strategic position for regional travel and trade.

A message for Tourism Month

As Tourism Month gets underway, the airport is using the Springbok aircraft as an example of the infrastructure and services available in the province.

For Limpopo, the message is simple: the Springbok spirit did not just fly through the province; part of it was created here.