Swartkop 2011 - From Canvas to Jets

The annual airshow held at the Swartkop Air Force Base, is organised by the Air force Museum, and is a big favourite with aviation enthusiasts around the country - so much so that a lot of these people fly to Gauteng to attend this fantastic show.

Big crowd favourites are the Mirages that usually fly, but at the last two Swartkop airshows, the Cheetah made a welcome return. Many people have a "Proudly South African" feeling towards the Cheetah, which is probably the ultimate upgrade of upgraded Mirage III's around the world. Taken out of service to be replaced by the Gripen, the Cheetah is still a firm favourite amongst many aviation enthusiasts. It was the last time this Cheetah was flown in South Africa, as it was used to replace a damaged Cheetah in Ecuador.

It was a little disappointing that Gripen did not fly, but a long list of jets made up for it.  Mirage F1, Impala, Vampire, Hawk and Cheetah gave the Jet Junkies a full dose of jet flying. The Mirage F1 and Hawk both flew two displays, each giving a sunset display with the Mirage showing off its afterburner- indicated beautifully with the picture at the top on the DVD cover on the right.

Another favourite was the P51 Mustang - what a privilege to hear this WWII warbird's engine rumbling in the sky over Pretoria.

The mini war was fabulous; including two Rooivalk attack helicopters and various Army vehicles and a mock up war between two tanks. Close ups of Alouette III, Puma, Oryx and Rooivalk helicopters will make this clip a favourite with chopper fans.

Aerobatics displays included the Silver Falcons, the Flying Lions, a Pitts Special team and an incredible display by a Mazda Zoom Zoom Extra 300.

Running time : 1 hour 57 minutes.