Yak 52

Yak 52

Not uncommon in South African skies, this Russian beauty just happens to be one of my favourites, and flying in one is definitely on my bucket list! It doesn’t carry war time nostalgia like some of the older fighter trainers, but it stands tall and proud which makes it a simply unforgettable sight.

Say what??? The unpronounceable CVJETKOVIC CA 61

Say what??? The unpronounceable CVJETKOVIC CA 61

There is nothing like discovering the hangar(s) belonging to a true aviator. You can be sure, that if the owner was already attempting to build his own aircraft at age twelve, that he is going to have an eye for interesting aircraft, and a hangar full of exciting projects, whether they be beautiful restorations, or bits and pieces all waiting for ‘something’…

Rutan VariEze

Rutan VariEze

I just love it when people send me photos of interesting aircraft they have spotted (so please send yours – info@essentialpilot.co.za), but this one really made me do a double take and want to clean my contact lenses! My first reaction to the sender was ‘What on earth is it??’. I could just not figure out which was the front end and which was the rear…

Radio failure during an IFR flight

Radio failure during an IFR flight

Following on from part one, of what to do if your radio appears to have failed in flight, here we tackle what to do in the case of a radio failure during an IFR flight. Unlucky for me, this one actually happened to me this past week – as they say there is always...
The Classic Tiger Moth

The Classic Tiger Moth

Two words come to mind when looking at a Moth – classic and heritage. Meeting this particular example, was certainly a memorable privilege, not only because I got to sit in it, but because of the owners.

Diamond DA42 – Your Dream Twin

Diamond DA42 – Your Dream Twin

I have had my eye on this one for a while, for the simple reason that should I be the lucky winner of the Euro Millions, this would probably be the “IT” purchase. The thing that will immediately grab your attention is that it looks nothing like you have...