RECREATIONAL FLYING
by Julian Smith
Although the Algoa Flying Club was officially formed on 26 November 1956, the club proudly claims to one of the oldest flying clubs in South Africa. It can trace its roots all the way back to 1929, when the Port Elizabeth Aero Club was formed. THE MODERN ALGOA FLYING CLUB is a registered NPO (not-for-profit) organisation made up of flying enthusiasts with the aim of promoting flying and flying training within a friendly environment. In 1971 a ground-breaking decision was made for the club to acquire its own aircraft and establish its own training centre.
2021 65th Celebration In 2020, due to Covid-19, no wings awards evening was held, so a double celebration was warranted this year for the 65th Anniversary and Wings Parade. On the evening of Saturday 20 November over 80 members arrived at the Walmer Golf Estate. As guests gathered on the balcony enjoying pre-dinner snacks, the festivities started with a sponsored flypast by Hangar51, using a L29 and Yak 52. The L29 Delfin was flown by Mike Weingartz and the lead Yak 52 by Koos Kieck. These two vastly experienced former SAAF fighter pilots had their hands full with the violently bumpy conditions from the famous windy city.
bumpy conditions from the windy cit y
Currently the club has a fleet of Cessna 152s, a Cessna 172, a Cessna 172 RG, a Sling 2, a Seneca, a Airvan GA8 and a SACAA Accredited Elite Evolution S812 (FNPT11) Simulator, which offers multi-engine piston training based on the Beech Baron B58 and single-engine piston based on the Cessna 172RG. The club offers training to local and international students.
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December / January 2021/22
