07-05-2025
SPONSORED I Mpumalanga Air Show set to take to the skies this Saturday
SPONSORED I Mpumalanga Air Show set to take to the skies this Saturday
With just days remaining, the skies above the Lowveld are about to roar to life for the legendary Mpumalanga Air Show, proudly supported by the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency.
This spectacular aviation event is set to take flight this Saturday, bringing together families, aviation lovers and thrill-seekers from across the country.
The gates will open at 10:00, welcoming early visitors to enjoy a festive atmosphere filled with vendors, food stalls and a beer garden.
Throughout the morning, aircraft arrivals and display validations will take place, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the action that lies ahead.
From 13:00, the skies will begin to stir with model aircraft demonstrations, including a performance by the Extra 330 LX. This will be followed by a sequence featuring Harvards, Navions, AT802 Air Tractors and helicopter take-offs, with fire trucks and emergency vehicles showcased on the runway.
The main show officially begins at 14:45 with a high-impact Vietnam War-themed opening, which will consist of AT802s, Harvards and Navions, as well as helicopters, skydivers and the L29 jet with a fire wall. The programme includes a performance by the Airlink Embraer 190E, an aerial display by the Puma Flying Lions, a solo from the Extra 330 LX and an adrenaline filled race between a helicopter and a car.
The intensity continues from 16:00 with a helicopter formation display, followed by individual highlights such as the Navion display, the agile RV7 and the Kishugu firefighting demonstration featuring UH-1s and AT802s. Spectators can also look forward to the L29 jet and a gyrocopter display.
At 17:00, skydivers will descend with a massive South African flag, marking the beginning of the grand finale. A glider will trace elegant paths through the sky, followed by the Flying Lions' sunset show and their explosive 'Tora Tora' display. Hot air balloons will rise as twilight sets in, setting the stage for a breathtaking fireworks display at 18:05. The programme will conclude officially at 18:15.
Beyond the thrilling aerial performances, the air show promises a vibrant ground experience, with hundreds of food and craft stalls, a dedicated kids play area, and multiple entertainment zones to keep families engaged throughout the day.
Tickets are selling fast and are available online until May 8. General admission is priced at R195 per adult, R110 for pensioners aged 65 and over, and R85 for children aged 2 to 12 (note that access to the kids play area is sold separately).
For those looking to elevate their experience, a VIP ticket is available at R500 per adult. This exclusive option includes gourmet canapés, access to a private cash bar, and comfortable, covered seating in a shaded area.
Parking is offered in two tiers. On-site parking is limited to only 200 tickets and costs R250 per vehicle. These tickets must be purchased online in advance. Alternatively, public parking is available at R20 per vehicle, payable (in cash only) upon arrival. For the safety and comfort of all guests, certain items are permitted and others prohibited.
Visitors may bring non-glass water bottles, camp chairs, child identification measures, sunscreen and hats. However, no alcohol, glass containers, cooler boxes (except for water), unauthorised gazebos or umbrellas, laser devices or any type of weapon will be allowed.
'This airshow is a tribute to the people of Mpumalanga and a celebration of flight,' says Johan Heine, the chairperson of the Mpumalanga Air Show.
'Every year we raise the bar, and 2025 will be our biggest, boldest, and most unforgettable event yet.'
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