Learners and aviation enthusiasts gathered in Pietermaritzburg this weekend, to witness the fourth KwaZulu-Natal Winter Air tour.
The tour provides an opportunity for individuals to develop and experience a taste of the world of aviation.
Before the Air-show began, organisers hosted a development programme for over 500 learners.
The team worked closely with the municipality and the Department of Education to host delighted learners in an aviation awareness morning, in a bid to increase awareness of aviation and the opportunities in the industry. Some of the learners were offered an opportunity to fly for the first time.
Additionally officials from the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), South African Airways (SAA) and Federal Airlines among other engaged with scholars while also making them aware of opportunities available in the field.
First time flyer Thelitha Gaye, from Cater High School, said she experienced mixed feelings of excitement and nervousness.
“I could not believe it when I was off the ground. I kept asking my friends are we really off the ground? It was also amazing to watch Pietermaritzburg from the sky,” said Gaye.
KwaZulu-Natal government economist, Clive Coetzee, based at the provincial Treasury, said the air shows are no longer about people sitting under trees watching airplanes. They are now developed in such a way that they can benefit the greater society.
“We now make this more of a spectator event as we now bring all sorts of ideas on the table, like the development programme to introduce kids from all walks of life to aviation. We also give an opportunity to a minimum of three traders to trade here for free of charge,” said Coetzee.
This was the fourth KZN Winter Air-Show which, started in Dundee, Ladysmith and Newcastle. – SAnews.gov.za
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