Airshow takes flight over Virginia

The airshow has a long and iconic history in Durban, with 57 years of having thrilled spectators with spectacular manoeuvres and acrobatic flips.

This year’s action-packed line-up included displays from various aerobatic pilots. Photo: Thuligraphy Images

THOUSANDS of aviation enthusiasts were treated to an aerial spectacle at the Virginia Airshow.

Last year, the landmark show made a remarkable comeback after a ten-year hiatus in 2014.

It also claimed the prestigious Airshow of the Year award – which is a tremendous accolade for the KZN province.

Solo aerobatic pilots thrilled attendees with individual freestyle displays and multi award winning Nigel Hopkins took to the skies in a fully branded Standard Bank Extra aircraft as a demonstration of branding in the air as an effective way of putting a message across to the public.

There were also displays by classic vintage aircraft, radio control planes and amazing helicopter demonstrations.

The airshow has a long and iconic history in Durban, with 57 years of having thrilled spectators with spectacular manoeuvres and acrobatic flips.

Sponsors of the Virginia Airshow this year include Standard Bank who partnered with the Umhlanga Tourism organisation.

In the lead-up to the event, Jeannie Sarno, the chairperson of Umhlanga Tourism Organisation, expressed her excitement.

“The turnout was amazing, and the response from the public was great. Sadly, the windy conditions made a few changes to the timetable, but still, there was much fun to be had. I’m already looking forward to next year’s event. We are also grateful to our Umhlanga Tourism members who were generous to offer accommodation for the pilots,” she said.

Dominic and Shaun Judge look forward to a morning of aerial spectacles.

Liam Mezher and Hugh Hansen, chairman of the Durban Wings Club based at Virginia Airport.

Morgan Manson, a Northlands Primary School learner, admires one of the planes on display outside a hangar.

South African Air Force members Senior Warrant Officer Phillip Makwela and Warrant Officer Class 1 Abby Mokoena.

Ashveer Phunwasi shows his son, Viaan, some of the planes on display. It was their first time at the Virginia Airshow.

The Ramadu family, Dwayne, Sashin and Danialle. Sashin has been to a number of airshows and was introducing his son, Dwayne, to his first.

Durban North SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Nonhlanhla Shozi with eThekwini Fire & Emergency supervisor Brad Hatfield.

Aerobatic teams also showed off their precision and formation skills with death defying manoeuvres including the switchblade and knife edge which always excite the crowd.

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