Zephanias Sithole, a 25-year-old self-taught aviation inventor from Windmill Park, recently featured in Boksburg Advertiser, has made the difficult decision to sell the concept of his private jet design, the Fly Pootezeff Aerospace ZX, because of financial challenges and a lack of support.
Sithole built the jet in his backyard using aluminium and fibreglass. The full-scale model jet that seats 15 passengers represents years of dedication and learning.
The jet features an image of former President Nelson Mandela along the side, a tribute to resilience and vision.
Sithole said his efforts to gain sponsorships or investment have not yielded results.
“I reached out to government departments, private companies, innovation funds, you name it,” he said.
“I sent emails, made calls, even pitched the idea in person. But received no support to take this project to the next level.”
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Sithole said he used his technical drawing skills and passion for aviation to design the jet from scratch.
“Without access to advanced manufacturing tools or professional guidance, I relied on books, online resources, and practical trial and error to bring the concept to life.“The aircraft, which has been taking shape since 2019, remains a conceptual prototype and cannot fly in its current state. However, the detailed design and vision are clear.”
Sithole has plans, models and outlines of how the aircraft could function if developed by a professional team with sufficient funding and resources.
“The Fly Pootezeff was never just about building a jet. It was about proving that someone from a township like Windmill Park can dream beyond their circumstances,” he said.
With no financial means to continue development, Sithole is offering to sell the project’s intellectual property, including design files, concept documentation, and the rights to the Fly Pootezeff name to a buyer who shares the vision and has the resources to pursue it.
“If someone takes this and makes it a reality, I will be proud to know it started here. I want to see it fly one day, even if it is not with me at the helm,” he said.
Sithole hopes the funds generated from the sale will allow him to start a small business or fund another innovation project, possibly one more suited to his current circumstances. He also expressed interest in mentoring or collaborating with other young inventors.
“This dream is too big for one person, especially without support. But it is not the end for me; I still have other creative ideas in aviation and want to help others, like me, who do not have access to opportunities.”
Anyone interested in buying the concept, contact him at 071 593 2871.
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