Ruimsig teen bags private pilot’s licence

It’s no secret that pilots get the best view, and when one becomes a licensed pilot, you can experience the world from a fresh perspective and explore new horizons each time you take flight.

At the tender age of 17 Lukhanyo Joko from Ruimsig has gained knowledge that many at his age never thought they would need to know as he ventures into becoming a better planner, a logical decision-maker, and a meteorologist.

The King’s School West Rand (TKSWR) Grade 12 learner recently not only achieved his Private Pilot Licence (PPL) but did so in outstanding time and outstanding quality.

Lukhanyo who will be turning 18 in June, told the Northsider that he had always been interested in flying, his earliest memory was when he was three or four.

“I think it was a flight from OR Tambo International to Bloemfontein,” said Lukhanyo.

“We were walking to the plane on the apron and there was a Mango 737 taxiing in not far in front of us. I think that’s when I started becoming interested in aircraft.

He has been training at the Cirrus South Africa Flight School in Lanseria since January 2021 and completed his PPL training.

Lukhanyo passed the test on Friday, March 18 at 67,9 total hours of flight time.

“I’d love to do my commercial pilot’s licence so that once I have that I can get a job at an airline or maybe even fly corporate jets for a charter airline.

“It doesn’t matter though because as long as I’m flying I’m happy,” said Lukhanyo.

He revealed to the Northsider that it hadn’t sunk in yet, which explains why he was not as excited as he thought he would be although he was still extremely grateful for this accomplishment.

“It just doesn’t make sense to me that I’m perfectly comfortable and capable to fly an aircraft safely all on my own; I’m incredibly blessed to have achieved this while still in school.

“The experience is unlike anything else, it’s just fascinating how something so heavy can just fly. I love interacting with the advanced technology; overall it’s like a whole new world,” said Lukhanyo.

According to Lukhanyo’s parents Vuyani and Nomandla Joko they are happy and grateful to God that they have supported their son’s dream to fruition, with him also working really hard to achieve this milestone.

“Sweat and tears were shed during this journey, with everyone in the household sacrificing many things to get to this point and for that, we are humbled,” said Vuyani.

When asked to share a word of advice to his peers, Lukhanyo quickly advised against letting other people or current circumstances discourage you from pursuing a dream.

“If I could do it, you can too. Don’t give up on the dream before you’ve tried reaching it and also finish all your exams for flight school first then fly. I heard it’ll make the journey less stressful,” said Lukhanyo.