It feels like it has been forever since I did my last entry. There has been quite a few things that kept me busy... I'm actually writing my Matric end exams at the moment but I just cannot wait any longer to finally write something about the most amazing and memorable 2 months of my life.
I cannot keep up with what has happened but I'll give it my best shot. Let me give you some more background again...
I have been in contact with Col. Hadfield since the 2nd of September. I phoned him almost every second day (before you think that I am a nuisance, he told me that I most phone him so much!) and we discussed the upcoming selections. He was trying his best to make sure that I will be able to attend the October selections. After a few phone calls he was able to tell me that my application form somehow got lost again. At this time the October selections would start in about 2 weeks and they have no application from me. He asked if I could personally bring him a copy of my application form so that he will personally hand it to them. The next day we drove through to AFB Ysterplaat and I did exactly what he asked. I was also able to visit the Ysterplaat Museum for the first time and woooaw, it was amazing. I thoroughly enjoyed it!
A few days later I heard from Col. Hadfield that my forms had been processed and that I will be attending selections in October. I was over the moon! Finally, I can start reaching for my dream. The butterflies I had was indescribable and I'm actually starting to feel them again as I'm typing this and thinking about that moment.
Now I just had to wait for confirmation from SAAF HQ and receive a SMS stating that I have been officially invited. (Col. Hadfield was only able to tell me that I am definitely going but he was unsure of when they will formally inform me.) I started phoning HQ on a daily basis to find out when I'm receiving my SMS and if I am going to attend selections because the time that the scheduled selections should take place was getting closer every single day.
Monday, 26th Of September... Still nothing from HQ. Selections is supposed to start that Sunday on the 2nd of October. Luckily my parents was able to arrange that we stay over at my Aunt's house in Wonderboom whenever we had to come through, so at least we were quite flexible. If we did not hear anything from SAAF by Friday morning we would cancel the trip, otherwise we arranged that we will be driving through on the 30th of September, the night of my Matric Farewell. I will attend the Matric Farewell but we will leave at 21:00 and drive through the night to Pretoria so that we will also be there in time for the Waterkloof Airshow! It has been a dream of mine this entire year to attend that Airshow... Reading about it on forums, magazines and posters just made the excitement unbearable.
It was only on the 28th of September that I finally received the SMS. It stated that I must be at Bosman station at 13:45 on Monday, 3 October. I was puzzled as why they said the 3d of October and not the 2nd. I phoned HQ and spoke to Corporal Ingalo. (She has also helped me sooo much and I am very grateful for it) She told me that for some reason selections has changed. It is no longer an entire week (If you pass everything) but only 2 days. The groups has also changed from 50 people in a week to 400 people in a week! She also said that we will only be doing one part of the test as well, not everything - only the Psychometric testing. Apparently, the reason she gave me, was that it "Saves money over the long term" ... I was a bit disappointed but still tried to keep my head high. You have to take it as it comes!
It was the night of the Matric Farewell and my b-e-a-u-tiful partner Chloe, who I am also very lucky to call my girlfriend, would also be joining me on my trip to Pretoria. (That is another reason why I was unable to get around to typing this!) I was fortunate enough to meet this amazing person who is able to support me in reaching for my dreams and know the sacrifices that we have to make if I do succeed in making it into SAAF. She will be visiting a friend that she hasn't seen in a few years while I will be at selections.
Anyway... It was 21:00 that night and we left to Chloe's house to get dressed in comfortable clothes for the long road that lies ahead. A few last photos, a quick visit to the loo and final greetings - we were off to Pretoria! We drove with my Mothers' BMW so there was quite some space in the back for us to sleep. Just as we left Hermanus we got comfy in our seats and dreamt away! ...Later that night I woke up from a sudden jilt in the car and I could sense that something was wrong. Out of instinct I screamed "Don't hit the brakes, don't hit the brakes" as I thought that we might have burst a tyre. Since we were little toddlers my parents always drilled it into us to never hit the brakes when a tyre bursts as the car might spin out of control and could roll. After the car came to a stop it was filled with smoke. I only then realized we had been in a accident. It was at 23:50 and a few kilometers after Worcester. First I checked if everyone was okay - we were all shocked but luckily none of us were badly hurt. My Mother had a cut on her chin (Either by the airbag or the dog that was sleeping on her chest) and my dads leg was bruised. The dog was also fine. The next thing we tried to do was to get out of the car as quickly as possible. On the left hand side we were pinned to a tall fence and neither of the doors would budge. On the right hand side the front door could not open because of the impact. The right hand back door, the one I was sitting at, could barely open. I had to really force it open to get out. I then asked my Dad to open the bonnet so that I can see if there is a fire or a hazard in case we have to move quickly. He opened the bonnet and there was smoke everywhere, luckily there was no fire or dangerous hazard of any kind. My Dad tried to get out through the broken front windows but he could not as the door was completely shut and the airbag above the door for side impacts was pulled tightly like a nylon rope and obscured him from getting out the window. He passed me his pocket knife and I cut the rope so that he could get out of the window. During this time my Mother was phoning my brother and told him what happened and that he must come with another vehicle to pick us up.
Finally everyone was out of the wreckage and the Police just arrived, shortly followed by an ambulance. They drove the car away on a low-bed as it was completely written off. The policeman then drove us to the police station where my brother would be picking us up. We arrived at the police station and at this stage I still did not know how it happened. My Dad told me that a lorry with a trailer was doing a U-turn on the main road. (which we could not see as it was just after a bend.) As he passed the trucks' headlights he could only then see the trailer that was on our side of the road. The trailer didn't have any reflector strips on it either and was completely invisible in the dark. When he saw it he hit the brakes and swung out. We were going 100km/h at that time. He swung out to the point where the left wheels was on the gravel and the right wheels was barely on the road and yet we STILL hit the trailer. The car then veered off the road and into a 2m ditch (That's when I woke up) and stopped against the fence. The truck drove off and we never found it again. Another shocking thing was that when we were in that ditch for 20minutes and the police wasn't there yet, only ONE car stopped to see if we were okay... One car out of a few hundred that passed AND the accident was clearly visible from both sides. Absolutely shocking...
We only got home at 05:00 that Saturday morning. The thought of people already at Waterkloof almost put a tear in my eye and I tried not to think about it. It was sad - I wish I could have been there but there was absolutely nothing I could do. I woke up at about 08:00 after a short sleep and we started planning on what we're going to do now. We could drive through with my car but Mom didn't want us to... the shock was still quite overwhelming. We then opted to fly up as that was the only other thing we could do. We found tickets with 1Time airlines (They were the cheapest but still really expensive as it was booked a day before the flight and it was on a Sunday) It was set - My Dad and I will be flying to OR Thambo International the next morning, Sunday, at 09:00...
That Saturday Chloe and I spent some time together trying to work through the shock and think straight again. We realized that if we were a few more centimeters to the right then we would have hit the trailer head on and it could have been a lot worse. If it wasn't for my Dad's quick reaction it would not have been a nice sight... After a event like that you realize how precious life is and how easily it can come to a end. We are all just very grateful that it wasn't worse. (I did not plan to write it in that much detail, the memories just came back as I was busy typing it)
That Sunday morning we were on our way to the airport at 06:20. I was still really tired because of the lack of sleep, which is quite ironic as I tried to get as much sleep as I can that previous week so that I will be fresh and rested at selections. I wanted to sleep as my Dad drove us there, but I refrained from doing so... We chatted about SAAF and he asked me some questions that they might ask when I am there. At the airport we had a nice KFC breakfast and sat in the viewing section where we can watch the airplanes arriving and departing. It was interesting to see how the different aircraft had different characteristics and how some could take off at very low speeds and the others used almost the whole runway... I don't really know a lot about the airlines' aircraft but it seems like that is a big section in aviation itself. I'm quite sure that I would gain some more knowledge about that in time.
As we drove to the apron I could feel the excitement as I only then realized that this would be the first time that I would have the opportunity to fly this entire year! We boarded the airplane through the rear and the sound of the engines was overwhelming. I have been smiling from ear to ear the entire drive there and my cheeks actually started to hurt. We sat on the left isle which were only two seats. I had the window seat and we were sitting just-just in front of the wing. I read the safety leaflet while we were still waiting for everyone to board. As the final people boarded I looked out of the window and could see the Pilot doing some checks as the flaps moved. Everyone was ready and we had a quick introduction from the Pilot and his air hostess'. We taxied to the runway and I was astounded to see how much Cape Town International had changed since the last time I was there. The last time I flew there was in 2007! We were lined up on the runway and I could hear the engines starting to roar. The brakes was released and we were off!
We gained speed quickly as I saw the other aircraft in the apron flickering by. As we pulled up I felt some slight G-Forces - I haven't felt that in ages! That feeling alone is almost like a drug. I saw the runway getting smaller under us and instinctively showed my self-satisfied smirk. We did some turns to the left and I got goosebumps all over as I could not get enough of the "I'm flying" feeling. We leveled out at 30 000 foot and I could not see anything out the window anymore as it was completely overcast. It was just clouds everywhere but it still felt amazing - almost as if we were floating over the clouds! For the entire 2 hour trip my head was glued to the window. The only time I turned it around was when I heard "Would you like something to drink?"
We approached Johannesburg and I immediately noticed how different it was from the Cape. It was covered by a big brown cloud of pollution. We descended through the cloud and I could only then see the rest of Jozi. The Cape is sooo much more beautiful than Gauteng and I would really miss it if I do reach my dreams but it's just one of those sacrifices that goes with it...
We landed safely at OR Thambo and was greeted by my Auntie René. She then drove us to her home in Wonderboom which is walking distance away from the Wonderboom Airport! As we got to her home I could hear the aircraft flying overhead. Every time I heard one I ran outside to look which airplane it was. My Aunt even said that I'm like a child in a toy store... If only she would understand! That night I ate as much as I can as I did not know when I will have a delicious meal again.
I had a good nights sleep and was up early morning to get my things ready. I packed my clothes for two days and also packed all the essentials such as my SAAF introductory module I compiled, my application forms as requested and my ID. We left at about 09:00 to try and find Bosman Station as we only had a slight idea of where it is. My Dad and I drove about 30 minutes to the area and started asking around for directions. After a few petrol tanks we were able to find it. We were a good 2 and a half hours early! I phoned a good friend of mine, JC Nel, who would also be attending the selections but drove with a bus which SAAF bought the ticket for. He would arrive at Bosman Station shortly and we decided to wait for him. Half an hour later he arrived and we then went to McDonalds to fill our tummy's some more. There was still some time left and we then drove around, looking for some interesting stores that we could look around in. We found a Army Surplus store and my Dad instinctively stopped there. They had a wide variety of items - even some flight suits and ex-SAAF flight helmets. I was able to buy my brother a Mini MagLite for his birthday which he would use at work. We then went back to Bosman Station and was perfectly on time. We got on the SAAF Bus that would take us to the Headquarters.
On the bus we met Candidate Officer Thabo. (Unfortunately I can not remember his surname) He will be with our group the entire time. We also met another Corporal that would do the same. It was almost like a good-cop, bad-cop situation as CO Thabo was the good cop and the Corporal was the bad cop - which the rest of the group instantly gave an inappropriate nickname to. We arrived at HQ at about 14:30 and immediately went to a big hall where they have meetings and presentations. We then had a few introductory speeches by various Corporals. We were told that selections had been changed due to a sink hole at one of the institutes and that they had to move the equipment to a different airbase. If we do pass the Psychometric testing we would come back to Pretoria to do the rest of the tests... They also asked us some SAAF related questions and I was able to answer the majority of them. Only a few of us could actually answer some of them. Nobody but myself knew who the Chief of the Air Force was or who founded SAAF. I was astounded to see that more than half of the people could not even name one aircraft that was in service. It was really shocking - what were they all doing there if they lacked the passion that drives you?
The previous days' group arrived from their Psychometrics and we were told to wait outside of the hall while their results are being read. While we have been waiting for at least a full hour some of the people in my group started to get restless and started to fidget around. There was only a hand full of us that was still enjoying every second and who chatted about SAAF. We play the "Hurry up and wait game" some more and I really did not even mind the slightest bit as I just wished I could have been there every single day of my life. Some people came out of the hall crying and others with a glisten in their eyes. They were a group of about 70 and only 8 made it through the Psychometrics! When they were done we were told that we will be leaving for Ditholo where we would be spending the night, at 18:00 and which was in 30 minutes. We then did a 5 minute walk to where the bus would pick us up.
There was a old Mirage on display outside of HQ and only a few of us knew that it was a Mirage! I stood in awe and wished that someday I might fly in one of them. We then waited another 25 minutes for the bus to arrive. The bus picked us up and we were then joined by another 15 people who was already on the bus. They arrived a bit later and unfortunately missed out on a great day. I counted the group and we were 53 people in Mondays' group. This is not a racist remark as I am not racist but only 10 people from the group was white - only 1 white female. We then proceeded to drive to Ditholo. On our way there we stopped at a petrol station so that we can get some snacks and water - if you do not feel like drinking "Military Water" ... Some pushed their luck and got Steers Burgers which then made the 5 minute stop a 30 minute stop.
It was a long drive and we only arrived at Ditholo at about 20:00. We immediately went to the mess hall and had a 5 star meal. I was really impressed by the quality of food. We had a nice piece of meat with gravy, potatoes and veggies. We also had juice and could have some bread if you'd like to. We only had 15 minutes to eat as we wasted time at the petrol station. I am quite a slow eater but the food was so good I was able to finish in record time! When you were done eating each of us had to wash our own "Varkpan" and then had to unpack the luggage. Some of the group members brought luggage for a month! The bags were bigger than them... Eish!
We then proceeded to our bunker and everyone settled in at about 20:30. I had a quick, warm, shower - yes, they have 200litres of warm water for every bunker. We all then went to lie on our beds and chatted some more. I tried to sleep early as I knew we had to wake up at 04:00 the next morning and we needed all the rest we could get. I was the only one that put my Silver Falcon beanie on and pulled it over my eyes to block the light and tried to sleep. The beds was quite comfy as they supplied a mattress, pillow and military sleeping bag. The bunker was warm enough to sleep without a shirt. I remembered waking up at 22:00 and they were all still chatting away! ...Not very smart if you are writing a VERY important test the next day. At least some of them were smart enough to ask if they could borrow my module to study some of the information in there.
Early the next morning we were woken up by the light that was switched on and a different group that was training at Ditholo and doing their early morning jogs with songs being chanted. I immediately woke up and headed for the bathroom so that I can be woken up properly by a luke-warm shower. I was finished showering and most of them were still sleeping! Only a few of us were making our beds and getting ready for the day. We then swept the floor around our beds and brushed our teeth as we didn't know if we would be able to come back and do it after breakfast. While the others were slowly awaking a few of us went to the mess hall for breakfast.
The breakfast was 5 star again as we had scrambled eggs, a BIG spoon of cheese and chicken livers - everything that is high in protein. It was nicely flushed down by juice and a sweet orange. We were done long before the others who were still putting make-up on and doing their nails - or so it felt like. Dragging their enormous bags to he bus the Corporal started getting impatient and ordered us to get seated. We were supposed to leave at 06:00 but due to a few others we were 15 minutes late... We were finally on the road again - destined for the MPI (Military Psychological Institute, if I can remember correctly)
We arrived at the MPI at 08:00 and were directed to the presentation room. We were given a short presentation and were shown a few clips of the Gripen in action to get us excited. That was followed by a 10 minute break to quickly fill our tummy's and have a round at the loo. All of us had to be seated in the exam room at 09:00. I was so eager to start with the tests that I sat all the way in front as candidate number 1. We were given a short introduction of how the tests would work and how the time limits would work. We would do 1 or 2 tests and then have a 5 minute break and then 1 or 2 more tests. For obvious reasons I will not elaborate on the tests itself but what I can say is that either you can do them or you can't. Luckily I was able to get myself into that "robot" thinking mode and do my utmost best. Some of the tests that was designed to not be completed in time I was able to complete with a quarter of the time remaining. From the entire test there was only 2 questions which I left blank and that was 2 that I was unable to do. I tried though but it got the better of me. Then again - 2 questions left out is nothing compared to the 50+ that others have left out. Also, while we were writing I could hear a jet bolt over the MPI and also various different aircraft and every time I heard it I had my little grin on my face whilst writing. I knew I gave it my best and was happy by how it went. We finished with testing at about 13:30 - Yes, that is 4 and a half hours of constant, intense testing! Hence the need for proper sleep!
We played the hurry up and wait game until 15:00 and discussed the test and various funny answers some gave. The bus finally arrived. (It had to pick up a new group at Bosman Station and drop them off at HQ before it could pick us up) My friend, JC, and a few other Capetonians that also drove with the bus had to be at Bosman Station at 16:15 for their ticket back to Cape Town. We then proceeded to drop them off and only a few of us was left to go back to HQ to receive the results. After we dropped them off we were all handed "Snack Boxes" which consisted of 2 cheese sandwiches, a juice box and an apple. We were also given a choice between a packet of Cheese Curlers or Big Corn Bites. I was starting to get butterflies again as we arrived at HQ.
Sitting quietly in the hall as we did the previous day I could sense a eerie aura filling the room. We were all quietly nibbling away on our snack boxes waiting for someone to bring us the results. After a few more minutes of waiting we were kindly greeted by Lieutenant Colonel "Rakalakala" (And please excuse me that I do not know how to spell his surname, but only know how to pronounce it more or less right - I will just refer to him as "Col. R" from this point forward until I have found out how to spell his surname) Col. R then gave us a speech about what it is like to be a military Pilot and tried to explain to us the type of profile or attitude they are looking for in a potential candidate. He then stated that he will divide us into 3 groups in no particular order. A group that didn't do very well, a group that just-just missed it and a group that passed the Psychometric testing.
At first he called out a few names and took those candidates to a room to privately speak to all of them. In that group was a few friends that I made whom I believed would easily pass the test - including my good friend JC (who was already on his way back to CT and asked me to SMS him the results.) I started to stress and awaited the news. They were not allowed to speak to us until all of the groups had been announced, although I could see on some of their faces that they looked a bit disappointed.
My name was called out next and the majority of my group was already on their way back to their homes. We were only three people present and at that moment I was unsure of how many names were called out. Col. R then started to tell us that we did really well in the tests BUT that we do not fit the profile of a military Pilot. He told us that he had good news however and that was that we can consider any other job in SAAF except Pilot training... we can also consider navigator training. My heart was broken (Really, it was!) and I suddenly became nauseous. At first I asked him if he was serious and he said yes and that he is very sorry. That moment a tear was forming in the corner of my eye and I stood with my hands in my hair. I told Col. R that I worked sooo hard and that I want to fly and do nothing else than that... I remember the "Colonel, I want to fly sooo bad - I dont want to do anything else than fly!" very clearly ...He just said sorry, there's noting he can do and that we must choose if we want to consider another job offer or come back next year March to try again. I could see that the other guys that was with me also wanted to shed a few tears. Their chins started to shudder as they were trying to contain the tears.
We all said that we will be coming back next year March as we wanted to fly! I didn't want the others to see that we didn't make it and wiped the tears off. If they see we did not make it then they will know that they did. As we walked out of the door Col. R stopped us and said that he will see us in the first week of December. We made it! He was playing a very, very bad joke on us but I would have most probably done the exact same. I asked him "Colonel, is it okay if I hug you?" and all three of us proceeded to hug him. He told us that from the 53 only 6 of us had passed - 5 white males and 1 Indian female. I was extremely happy and knew that I was one step closer to my dream! We walked out of the hall and bumped into the "bad-cop" Corporal that was with us the whole time and gave him a hug too.
My dad waited for me outside the HQ at this time and I tried to put a sad face on to fool him. I told him I did not make it and he immediately started to comfort me, I just smiled... I then told him that I did make it and he was just as happy and proud as I was. He even got goosebumps too, all over his arms and legs. I phoned my Mother and told her the story how Col. R told it to us. Only at the end I told her that I actually made it and she was really excited too! The next person I had to tell was Chloe and I told her the same story. Everyone was really happy and it was an amazing day!
Every second I was there I tried to stop me from smiling as my cheeks was really hurting from all the smiles. The selections were handled really well and I take my hat off to SAAF for doing it so professionally. It has greatly exceeded my expectations and I am even more eager to follow my dream!
After a good night's sleep we were off the next morning - heading home. We rode the Gautrein all the way from Hadfield to OR Thambo. It was about a hours drive with the train. That was quite a experience in itself as it was the first time I was on a rather fast train.
At the airport my dad and I had a nice Wimpy Burger. Our tummy's were full and we were ready for the flight! I was really excited as this time there was 0% cloud coverage the entire way back. In our boarding queue I saw there was someone standing whom was also at selections! It was Tamsyn Dunn, the only female that passed our groups' tests. She still didn't know that she had passed and I gave her the good news. She seemed really happy.
The flight back was amazing. It is really difficult to see a car on the main road at 30 000 feet though, they are small specks moving on the roads.. You can see everything from up there. Big mountain ranges, rivers, the drainage patterns in the mountains, the circle crops - everything! It is truly amazing! As we passed over Kimberley we had some HECTIC turbulence. I have never felt it that much before. Negative G's, positive G's... It was really fun though. We descended to a lower altitude to decrease the turbulence a little. As we came into Cape Town the scenery was beautiful. We had to do a circuit before we could land and did some sight seeing. It was quite an experience and I cant wait to get up there again!
And that is the end of my really amazing experience. I am very positive that I will have a lot of them next year when I'm busy with my SAAF Pilot training. Although I have not completed all of the selection tests yet, I am very sure that I will do absolutely great and pass them with flying colours. All that is left is the December Psychomotor Testing, Medicals and a few interviews. If I pass them I will start with my Basic Military Training on the 10th of January.
If something pops up before the December selections then I will definitely post it on here - if I get the time. For now its focus on my Matric end exams. Last test is on 23d of November... Maybe I will be able to do some flying in that 2 week gap before selections, hopefully!
I unfortunately only took some photos whilst flying up to JHB with my Cell Phone and for some reason I am unable to copy them over to the computer. I do hope however that I explained a lot of it in enough detail that you can create your own picture of the trip.
...Back to studying for now... Drive safely and keep your eye on the sky!
...Jaco over and out...
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Monday, August 22, 2011
Yes, No... Yes? No... Yes??
A LOT has happened in the last month or so! I just don't have the time to do entry's as my Matric year is really keeping me busy... Lets get a little background before I go on...
The first time that I sent my application form to SAAF it got lost even after they confirmed that they have received it. The second time it was the exact same story. I then asked if I could speak to someone that works directly with the application forms and was directed to Corporal Ingalo. She was the only person that actually went the extra mile to find out why my application form is not where it should be. She told me that they are a bit disorganized at the moment and that the forms just end up in places where it shouldn't. I then sent it in a third time and she immediately took it to where it should be. I phoned her every second day for at least 2 weeks to confirm that I am officially on their computers. After a while everyone actually started to know me and we would first chat a little before we actually spoke about the application forms... It was confirmed that I was chosen to attend selections but only in March 2012. Corporal Ingalo then said that she would try her best to see if she can get me into the next selection phase.
I phoned every day for quite a while to find out if she has good news. One day she did have good news and told me that she was able to get me into the upcoming September selections. I was over the moon! I spoke to our School Headmaster to find out if it would be okay if I missed a week of exams during September. He then went on to phone Corporal Ingalo to find out how everything works. (This was 2 days after I heard that I am going in September) Corporal Ingalo then told him that the military (Not SAAF) held a meeting the previous day and decided that all Matrics' applications will be postponed until January 2012 as not all the Headmasters are happy about their pupils missing a week of exams. Unfortunately she does not have the authority to single me out and give me the go ahead to attend selections.
While I was busy with this I also contacted Col. Hadfield a few times. He was able to confirm that I would attend the September selections but did not know about the military's decision to postpone it. He was working around the clock to find out what is actually going on and give me a answer but was unable to get anywhere. I phoned him again today and he told me that he will be flying to Pretoria on Monday to see whats going on. The latest news that he heard was that selections will be held during October because the Matrics need to know if they have to apply for Varsity or not. I will phone him again on the 2nd of September and hopefully get a final answer...
Yet again we play the "Hurry up and wait" game...
I recently sent a mail to EAA asking when their next meeting will be held so that I can attend it and meet some Pilots in the Cape Town area. I am still waiting for a reply though... I think that I might have a small breakthrough as I am going to meet a Pilot that lives in Hermanus somewhere in the upcoming week and maybe I could get the needed exposure. Hopefully someone would see the passion that I have for aviation and give me the opportunity to meet other Pilots... Now that I am a legal road hazard I will be able to drive to any of the events, so no worry's about transport anymore, only funds for petrol!
I also went for a eye test a day after my previous entry. The results was that I have 20/20+ vision, so I have nothing to worry about... Now I just need to get to a audiologist to see if my ears can handle the pressure!
I will most definitely try to post a bit more and keep everything a bit more up to date in the month to come. There is a lot of good things that could happen so please check back every week or so.
...Jaco over and out...
The first time that I sent my application form to SAAF it got lost even after they confirmed that they have received it. The second time it was the exact same story. I then asked if I could speak to someone that works directly with the application forms and was directed to Corporal Ingalo. She was the only person that actually went the extra mile to find out why my application form is not where it should be. She told me that they are a bit disorganized at the moment and that the forms just end up in places where it shouldn't. I then sent it in a third time and she immediately took it to where it should be. I phoned her every second day for at least 2 weeks to confirm that I am officially on their computers. After a while everyone actually started to know me and we would first chat a little before we actually spoke about the application forms... It was confirmed that I was chosen to attend selections but only in March 2012. Corporal Ingalo then said that she would try her best to see if she can get me into the next selection phase.
I phoned every day for quite a while to find out if she has good news. One day she did have good news and told me that she was able to get me into the upcoming September selections. I was over the moon! I spoke to our School Headmaster to find out if it would be okay if I missed a week of exams during September. He then went on to phone Corporal Ingalo to find out how everything works. (This was 2 days after I heard that I am going in September) Corporal Ingalo then told him that the military (Not SAAF) held a meeting the previous day and decided that all Matrics' applications will be postponed until January 2012 as not all the Headmasters are happy about their pupils missing a week of exams. Unfortunately she does not have the authority to single me out and give me the go ahead to attend selections.
While I was busy with this I also contacted Col. Hadfield a few times. He was able to confirm that I would attend the September selections but did not know about the military's decision to postpone it. He was working around the clock to find out what is actually going on and give me a answer but was unable to get anywhere. I phoned him again today and he told me that he will be flying to Pretoria on Monday to see whats going on. The latest news that he heard was that selections will be held during October because the Matrics need to know if they have to apply for Varsity or not. I will phone him again on the 2nd of September and hopefully get a final answer...
Yet again we play the "Hurry up and wait" game...
I recently sent a mail to EAA asking when their next meeting will be held so that I can attend it and meet some Pilots in the Cape Town area. I am still waiting for a reply though... I think that I might have a small breakthrough as I am going to meet a Pilot that lives in Hermanus somewhere in the upcoming week and maybe I could get the needed exposure. Hopefully someone would see the passion that I have for aviation and give me the opportunity to meet other Pilots... Now that I am a legal road hazard I will be able to drive to any of the events, so no worry's about transport anymore, only funds for petrol!
I also went for a eye test a day after my previous entry. The results was that I have 20/20+ vision, so I have nothing to worry about... Now I just need to get to a audiologist to see if my ears can handle the pressure!
I will most definitely try to post a bit more and keep everything a bit more up to date in the month to come. There is a lot of good things that could happen so please check back every week or so.
...Jaco over and out...
Sunday, July 24, 2011
A bit of a let down but we'll get there!
In my previous entry I mentioned the training program at AFB Ysterplaat. I went to chat to Pierre (The employer at Denel) about the program a week ago and he was able to give me more information about it. He gave me a number that I had to phone to sort out a few last things. I phoned the number and spoke to Bob Corbett, the person that runs the training program. At first we chatted about who I am and what I want to achieve. We then went on to speak about his program (At this time I still did not know what it was called, neither did Pierre, he just knew about it...)
He told me that he runs the Young Falcons program and at that moment I already knew that there would be a problem. From what I have heard, the Young Falcons only recruit pupils in Grade 10. Bob confirmed that and said that I am a good 2 years too late. It was a bit of a let down but we still went on with the conversation. He started to ask me questions such as "Do you play any instruments or sports" etc... He then told me that from his experience, everything I have just told him about myself will make me the ideal candidate at selections. He even went as far to give me Col. Pierre Hadfield's (The Ysterplaat recruitment officer's) number so that I can speak to him and tell him that Bob Corbett referred me to him. Every single day in the last week I only got home after 4 o'clock from school and was not able to phone him. However, I will most definitely phone him as soon as I can. Who knows what will happen from there?
In one of the previous posts I also mentioned that I will be going for medical tests in case there might be something wrong with me that I do no know about and that I can then fix that before I attend selections. Two days ago I went for an ECG and tomorrow I will go to an optometrist for an eye test. The results from the ECG was perfect and they said that my heart is 100% healthy. One less thing to worry about.
I am still looking for a working opportunity but I don't think that I will be able to get one before December though as I really need to focus on my studies and make sure that that I finish my school career on a good note. I wish it could have worked out a bit differently but maybe I'll be able to get one in the holidays (First you need to do what you have to before you can do what you want to!).
The urge to just even TOUCH a airplane is abysmal. I can not explain this feeling. It is almost as if you can't go on with your life as it makes you feel incomplete. The feeling that you actually NEED something to function properly. A type of hunger... I'm sure some people may be able to relate to this? Yes, it does suck, a lot actually, but we'll get there!
Lets just hold thumbs that I might be able to negotiate something with Col. Pierre Hadfield. Who knows, maybe I'll be able to attend the next upcoming selections? But let's not get too optimistic though, you still need to be realistic.
...Jaco over and out...
He told me that he runs the Young Falcons program and at that moment I already knew that there would be a problem. From what I have heard, the Young Falcons only recruit pupils in Grade 10. Bob confirmed that and said that I am a good 2 years too late. It was a bit of a let down but we still went on with the conversation. He started to ask me questions such as "Do you play any instruments or sports" etc... He then told me that from his experience, everything I have just told him about myself will make me the ideal candidate at selections. He even went as far to give me Col. Pierre Hadfield's (The Ysterplaat recruitment officer's) number so that I can speak to him and tell him that Bob Corbett referred me to him. Every single day in the last week I only got home after 4 o'clock from school and was not able to phone him. However, I will most definitely phone him as soon as I can. Who knows what will happen from there?
In one of the previous posts I also mentioned that I will be going for medical tests in case there might be something wrong with me that I do no know about and that I can then fix that before I attend selections. Two days ago I went for an ECG and tomorrow I will go to an optometrist for an eye test. The results from the ECG was perfect and they said that my heart is 100% healthy. One less thing to worry about.
I am still looking for a working opportunity but I don't think that I will be able to get one before December though as I really need to focus on my studies and make sure that that I finish my school career on a good note. I wish it could have worked out a bit differently but maybe I'll be able to get one in the holidays (First you need to do what you have to before you can do what you want to!).
The urge to just even TOUCH a airplane is abysmal. I can not explain this feeling. It is almost as if you can't go on with your life as it makes you feel incomplete. The feeling that you actually NEED something to function properly. A type of hunger... I'm sure some people may be able to relate to this? Yes, it does suck, a lot actually, but we'll get there!
Lets just hold thumbs that I might be able to negotiate something with Col. Pierre Hadfield. Who knows, maybe I'll be able to attend the next upcoming selections? But let's not get too optimistic though, you still need to be realistic.
Maybe I should get me one of these in the mean time?
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Time to get this stone rollin'!
Its been quite a while since I updated my blog and it is mostly due to exams that we wrote and also holidays! I worked very hard this term to get good results and I do believe that 5 distinctions payed off. I sent SAAF my application form with my new results and I am now (Finally) officially on their computers. Now we play the "Hurry up and Wait" game!
One night I went with my brother to a braai at a friend of his. In their lounge there was a lot of portraits of SAAF aircraft and I asked this friend where he got them. He told me that his father works at Denel and that he also has a lot to do with SAAF. I then arranged to meet with his father and have a chat.
He told me that he organises camps that young aspiring pilots can go to so that they can see what SAAF is all about. It's a 2-3 week camp and there you will experience the military life. Early up in the morning, marches, PT, Flight theory, a flip in between etc... Sounds like loads of fun! He told me that he will bring me the application forms when he is in town again.
A week later I went to pick up the forms and he had even better news! He was able to get my name into a training program at AFB Ysterplaat which is also for young aspiring pilots but this program is more flying orientated. I should be able to start with this program within the next month or two. It will happen fortnightly over the weekends. I will surely post more info about it on this blog as soon as I receive more news about it.
Now I am snooping around for a weekend and holiday working opportunity or something similar at any airstrip or flying club. It is only so that I can be exposed to flying and maybe if I someone is keen enough or willing to then I could get a flip with them. It has been waaaaay to long since I was in the air. In 4 days time it would be 8 months since I had a opportunity to fly with someone. Soon I will have my drivers license and then I will be able to drive to airshows by myself and also be able to drive to a airstrip if I am able to get a working opportunity there. I will then use those earnings to get me in the air to just experience the wonderous freedom of flight.
And now we wait... :)
...Jaco over and out...
One night I went with my brother to a braai at a friend of his. In their lounge there was a lot of portraits of SAAF aircraft and I asked this friend where he got them. He told me that his father works at Denel and that he also has a lot to do with SAAF. I then arranged to meet with his father and have a chat.
He told me that he organises camps that young aspiring pilots can go to so that they can see what SAAF is all about. It's a 2-3 week camp and there you will experience the military life. Early up in the morning, marches, PT, Flight theory, a flip in between etc... Sounds like loads of fun! He told me that he will bring me the application forms when he is in town again.
A week later I went to pick up the forms and he had even better news! He was able to get my name into a training program at AFB Ysterplaat which is also for young aspiring pilots but this program is more flying orientated. I should be able to start with this program within the next month or two. It will happen fortnightly over the weekends. I will surely post more info about it on this blog as soon as I receive more news about it.
Now I am snooping around for a weekend and holiday working opportunity or something similar at any airstrip or flying club. It is only so that I can be exposed to flying and maybe if I someone is keen enough or willing to then I could get a flip with them. It has been waaaaay to long since I was in the air. In 4 days time it would be 8 months since I had a opportunity to fly with someone. Soon I will have my drivers license and then I will be able to drive to airshows by myself and also be able to drive to a airstrip if I am able to get a working opportunity there. I will then use those earnings to get me in the air to just experience the wonderous freedom of flight.
And now we wait... :)
I just thought that this picture is very appropriate. Enjoy! :)
...Jaco over and out...
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Stellenbosch Fly In
Saturday, 7 May 2011
It's been a while since I have updated my blog. Mostly due to schoolwork and school activities I had to attend - thus I did not have the opportunity to do so. Yet again, nothing much happened in the last 2 months. The only exciting thing that did happen was the annual Stellenbosch Fly In held on the 7th of May. I didn't even know about it till 3 days before the show when I received a message on Facebook from Scott. He wanted to know if I would be there so that I could join him on a day of fun! I just had to go even though it was nearly impossible for me to arrange a lift to there and back. Soon I'll have my drivers license so I can drive myself to any airshow whenever I want - Cant wait!
I arranged to go with my brother and his girlfriend and they would stay at Somerset Mall for the rest of the day. Scott and I met at around 11am. If I can remember correctly, we started off with a chat of what has been happening since the last time I saw him etc... We just spoke about flying in general. He even tried to arrange me a flip with someone, but was unable to do so as there were only certain departure times.
Scott then bumped into one of his friends and he then took us to Paul Roos' hanger. In his hanger was (If I can recall correctly) a Chipmunk, RV - 7, RV - 8, Jabbi, PC 12 (I Think?) and... wait for it... a Audi R8! It was really awesome to see so many amazing planes, all in one hanger.
We then headed to the aircraft that was on display and Scott gave me a lesson about some fins on the leading edge and how that helps with aerodynamics and take off / landing / stall speeds. I can really see why he is one of the top rated instructors. I felt quite chuffed when I was able to easily fall in with him as I have already studied aerodynamics.
We then had a little chat about the SAAF and filled our belly's with free brownies. It was really awesome to just sit on a couch, ears being serenaded by a L-39, talking about my future... Even though I did have my camera with me, I never took any photos as I Scott and I were to busy with other things. (There is more that happened but that is just a short summary of most of the things) It was yet again, another day at a airshow to remember.
Scott and I then headed to Somerset Mall to meet up with my brother. He was going that direction anyway so I was able to get a lift with him. My brother and Scott then had about a half an hour chat (Most probably the most important half an hour chat!) You see, my brother is really sceptical and concerned about me joining the SAAF. I'm lucky to have a brother like him, because I know he just wants whats best for me. Alas, Scott was able to convince him that the SAAF is not as bad as he first thought.
It was another productive day and I just keep learning more every time I deal with something flying related. Even though I can't always be at Air Shows etc. I still try my best to build my knowledge and live out my passion for aviation. I moved to another room in the house about a week ago and I have great plans for it! I am drawing pictures of aircraft and I will frame it and put it up against my wall. I am also trying to get hold of a PC 7 Astra cardboard poster cockpit that I can put up against my wall above my study desk. I also started building aircraft models so that I can hang them from my roof... Typical boys room, but I'll never grow up when it comes to aviation!
I also realized that as I read through my previous post, how little I know about aviation. And I will most probably say the same about this post in a few months time... That's what keeps it so interesting, there is always a new mountain to conquer and something to learn!
Thats about it for now... Till next time then!
...Jaco over and out...
It's been a while since I have updated my blog. Mostly due to schoolwork and school activities I had to attend - thus I did not have the opportunity to do so. Yet again, nothing much happened in the last 2 months. The only exciting thing that did happen was the annual Stellenbosch Fly In held on the 7th of May. I didn't even know about it till 3 days before the show when I received a message on Facebook from Scott. He wanted to know if I would be there so that I could join him on a day of fun! I just had to go even though it was nearly impossible for me to arrange a lift to there and back. Soon I'll have my drivers license so I can drive myself to any airshow whenever I want - Cant wait!
I arranged to go with my brother and his girlfriend and they would stay at Somerset Mall for the rest of the day. Scott and I met at around 11am. If I can remember correctly, we started off with a chat of what has been happening since the last time I saw him etc... We just spoke about flying in general. He even tried to arrange me a flip with someone, but was unable to do so as there were only certain departure times.
Scott then bumped into one of his friends and he then took us to Paul Roos' hanger. In his hanger was (If I can recall correctly) a Chipmunk, RV - 7, RV - 8, Jabbi, PC 12 (I Think?) and... wait for it... a Audi R8! It was really awesome to see so many amazing planes, all in one hanger.
We then headed to the aircraft that was on display and Scott gave me a lesson about some fins on the leading edge and how that helps with aerodynamics and take off / landing / stall speeds. I can really see why he is one of the top rated instructors. I felt quite chuffed when I was able to easily fall in with him as I have already studied aerodynamics.
We then had a little chat about the SAAF and filled our belly's with free brownies. It was really awesome to just sit on a couch, ears being serenaded by a L-39, talking about my future... Even though I did have my camera with me, I never took any photos as I Scott and I were to busy with other things. (There is more that happened but that is just a short summary of most of the things) It was yet again, another day at a airshow to remember.
Scott and I then headed to Somerset Mall to meet up with my brother. He was going that direction anyway so I was able to get a lift with him. My brother and Scott then had about a half an hour chat (Most probably the most important half an hour chat!) You see, my brother is really sceptical and concerned about me joining the SAAF. I'm lucky to have a brother like him, because I know he just wants whats best for me. Alas, Scott was able to convince him that the SAAF is not as bad as he first thought.
It was another productive day and I just keep learning more every time I deal with something flying related. Even though I can't always be at Air Shows etc. I still try my best to build my knowledge and live out my passion for aviation. I moved to another room in the house about a week ago and I have great plans for it! I am drawing pictures of aircraft and I will frame it and put it up against my wall. I am also trying to get hold of a PC 7 Astra cardboard poster cockpit that I can put up against my wall above my study desk. I also started building aircraft models so that I can hang them from my roof... Typical boys room, but I'll never grow up when it comes to aviation!
I also realized that as I read through my previous post, how little I know about aviation. And I will most probably say the same about this post in a few months time... That's what keeps it so interesting, there is always a new mountain to conquer and something to learn!
Thats about it for now... Till next time then!
...Jaco over and out...
Monday, March 28, 2011
Job Shadowing at AFB Langebaanweg
Woaw! This has been a very busy three weeks indeed! I worked really hard at school to get my marks where wanted them and I believe that my hard work did pay off. In the process it kept me from doing blog entries and I got quite behind with it. To really shortly sum up what happened:
Langebaanweg Job Shadow - This entry
Working on Fire Hueys - When our mountain burnt down and they used them to transport firefighters
Langebaan Lagoon Festival - My first time experiencing a show by the Silver Falcons
Coffee with Maj. Scott Ternent - The start of a great friendship and future!
You might also notice that my blog's background has changed. It now has clouds, well, for the obvious reason and also a checkered flag that symbolises the goals that I want to reach!
Lets go ahead with the Job Shadowing... Please bare in mind that this happened 20 days ago and that I would try and remember it to the best of my ability! Unfortunately I was not allowed to take photos.
Tuesday, 8 March 2011
It was a cold and partly clouded morning. I was so happy that I weren't going to school as the bus drive would be freezing as the morning frost covers it and makes it a refrigerator! On our way to Langebaanweg my Father and I had a few chats about aviation in general and I tried to make him understand why I love flying so much... It was quite successful as he also showed interest in this passion of mine.
The R27 road from Cape Town to Langebaan is truly amazing. It reminds me of the Northern Cape but with a touch of "home". If only I could see it from up there... But I'm positive that I will in the near future! There were quite a few "Stop and Go's" and we had to make up some time on the long straights or I would be late for my appointment, and that's the last thing I want to happen! Fortunately I was there right on time and could meet with Col. Jaco Labuschagne at the gate.
I had to sign in at the gate as a visitor otherwise I would not be allowed on the premises. My father decided to stay in the car as he wanted to finish another one of his library of books from Louis L'Amour. Col. Labuschagne and I got into his vehicle and drove off to what I guessed was the main buildings. He took me to Lt. Theunissen who would be the person that I would shadow. Lt. Theunissen immediately took me into the Chief Flight Instructors' office. There I met the Silver Falcons and received a poster that was signed by them which also had a encouraging sentence on it that said:
Jaco
Alle sterkte met jou keuring!
Beste wense, Span 71, 2011
I had a chat with all of them and they truly inspired me to reach for the sky and live out my dream! After that we went to the briefing room where he explained to me what happens in the mornings and pre-flight briefs etc. As he was talking to me I noticed some of the pupil pilots entering the room, salute and sit down. How I wished that I could be in those orange overalls, waiting with a tummy wanting to explode with butterflies for my pre-flight briefs...
He showed me around in some other buildings where you have to log in when you will fly a sortie. There were some boards about aircraft maintenance and inspections which I found quite interesting. We then headed to his office where he showed me how the admin work is done. I never quite understood why everyone always said that you are kept very busy by doing admin work but now I do.
The next stop was the flight simulator! He showed me the previous one and said that it was out dated and that they received a new one. I could not understand why it was outdated because it looked as if it was in perfect condition. We then went to the newer one and I understood why he said that it was old. It is a big room with a flight of stairs leading up to a platform that looks out over the simulator. It is also where everything is controlled and assessed during flight. The Astra cockpit itself was surrounded by a concave screen that stretches about 270 degrees around it and was about 3 meters in height.
He started her up and I could not believe how realistic it looked compared to previous flight simulators I have played. He bolted down the runway and took of straight into some aerobatics. As he did rolls it felt like my head was spinning because of the realism. Langebaan was so beautiful from the air even though it was only a simulator. He showed me how the plane responds to certain stick and rudder combinations and I was amazed by the agility of it. Lt. Theunissen then asked me if I wanted to have a try. I wasn't sure if it was legal for a civilian to use the simulator but I guess he wouldn't let me if it was illegal. I got into the seat and tried to familiarize myself with all the buttons and knobs. All I had to know at that time was throttle, stick and rudder. I first did some turns and then went into some steeper knife edge turns. By instinct I gave some counter rudder as I felt the Astra slowly losing altitude in the steeper turns. I then tried to do some aerobatics. As I was going up for a loop the plane pitched to the left. If I can remember correctly I was told that it was caused by the momentum of the propeller. It is also why you would rather do a stall turn to the left than to the right as the plane has a tendency to rather yaw to the left. After a few instructions I am happy to say that I was able to do a near perfect loop. I did a few stalls as well. Pitch the nose 80degrees up, lower engine power, give a lot of rudder to the left, wait for it to start yaw around and voila, increase the engine power again. (Please correct me if I am wrong) I then tried a hesitation roll but was astounded by the difficulty. Once you are knife edged you have to give a lot of counter rudder and once you are inverted you have to push the stick forward to counter a nose down tendency as well. I did not succeed after three tries but I am sure that with a little bit of practice it will be perfect!
We then went on to the Air Traffic Control room where they explained to me how everything works. It was quite a windy and overcast day but it cleared up in the afternoon and I was able to see the planes take off from the ATC room. I also saw how these guys go about doing their jobs and it seemed like they really enjoy doing it. They have a system that they follow once a plane taxi, takes off, gets rerouted and lands. How these guys keep up with everything and not mess it up is amazing. It would be awesome to be a Air Traffic Controller but I would much rather be flying!
As the planes taxied out to the runway we headed towards a hanger. Close up the Astra was a bit larger than what I thought but it was still a beautiful plane! I was allowed to sit in it and Lt. Theunissen said that if I wanted him to he can take a photo with my cellphone. Here it is:
We then went to the apron where Lt. Theunissen was able to snap this photo of me with Falcon 3, Cpt. Buti Tsebe's plane:
It was the end of my Job Shadowing opportunity and with a lot of sadness in my heart I had to leave AFB Langebaanweg. At least I know that we will be reunited in a few years and I hope that Langebaanweg would be ready for me! It truly was a day to remember and I really learned a lot.
Another side note - I just realized that the last time I have flown is 4 and a half months ago! Unfortunately I did not have any opportunities but I am trying my best to find someone that is willing to take me for a flip. If anyone knows of somebody that is willing to help me out, please leave a comment. I would really appreciate it a lot!
"For once you have tasted flight you will walk the earth with your eyes turned skywards, for there you have been and there you will long to return." - Leonardo Da Vinci
...Jaco over and out...
Langebaanweg Job Shadow - This entry
Working on Fire Hueys - When our mountain burnt down and they used them to transport firefighters
Langebaan Lagoon Festival - My first time experiencing a show by the Silver Falcons
Coffee with Maj. Scott Ternent - The start of a great friendship and future!
You might also notice that my blog's background has changed. It now has clouds, well, for the obvious reason and also a checkered flag that symbolises the goals that I want to reach!
Lets go ahead with the Job Shadowing... Please bare in mind that this happened 20 days ago and that I would try and remember it to the best of my ability! Unfortunately I was not allowed to take photos.
Tuesday, 8 March 2011
It was a cold and partly clouded morning. I was so happy that I weren't going to school as the bus drive would be freezing as the morning frost covers it and makes it a refrigerator! On our way to Langebaanweg my Father and I had a few chats about aviation in general and I tried to make him understand why I love flying so much... It was quite successful as he also showed interest in this passion of mine.
The R27 road from Cape Town to Langebaan is truly amazing. It reminds me of the Northern Cape but with a touch of "home". If only I could see it from up there... But I'm positive that I will in the near future! There were quite a few "Stop and Go's" and we had to make up some time on the long straights or I would be late for my appointment, and that's the last thing I want to happen! Fortunately I was there right on time and could meet with Col. Jaco Labuschagne at the gate.
I had to sign in at the gate as a visitor otherwise I would not be allowed on the premises. My father decided to stay in the car as he wanted to finish another one of his library of books from Louis L'Amour. Col. Labuschagne and I got into his vehicle and drove off to what I guessed was the main buildings. He took me to Lt. Theunissen who would be the person that I would shadow. Lt. Theunissen immediately took me into the Chief Flight Instructors' office. There I met the Silver Falcons and received a poster that was signed by them which also had a encouraging sentence on it that said:
Jaco
Alle sterkte met jou keuring!
Beste wense, Span 71, 2011
I had a chat with all of them and they truly inspired me to reach for the sky and live out my dream! After that we went to the briefing room where he explained to me what happens in the mornings and pre-flight briefs etc. As he was talking to me I noticed some of the pupil pilots entering the room, salute and sit down. How I wished that I could be in those orange overalls, waiting with a tummy wanting to explode with butterflies for my pre-flight briefs...
He showed me around in some other buildings where you have to log in when you will fly a sortie. There were some boards about aircraft maintenance and inspections which I found quite interesting. We then headed to his office where he showed me how the admin work is done. I never quite understood why everyone always said that you are kept very busy by doing admin work but now I do.
The next stop was the flight simulator! He showed me the previous one and said that it was out dated and that they received a new one. I could not understand why it was outdated because it looked as if it was in perfect condition. We then went to the newer one and I understood why he said that it was old. It is a big room with a flight of stairs leading up to a platform that looks out over the simulator. It is also where everything is controlled and assessed during flight. The Astra cockpit itself was surrounded by a concave screen that stretches about 270 degrees around it and was about 3 meters in height.
He started her up and I could not believe how realistic it looked compared to previous flight simulators I have played. He bolted down the runway and took of straight into some aerobatics. As he did rolls it felt like my head was spinning because of the realism. Langebaan was so beautiful from the air even though it was only a simulator. He showed me how the plane responds to certain stick and rudder combinations and I was amazed by the agility of it. Lt. Theunissen then asked me if I wanted to have a try. I wasn't sure if it was legal for a civilian to use the simulator but I guess he wouldn't let me if it was illegal. I got into the seat and tried to familiarize myself with all the buttons and knobs. All I had to know at that time was throttle, stick and rudder. I first did some turns and then went into some steeper knife edge turns. By instinct I gave some counter rudder as I felt the Astra slowly losing altitude in the steeper turns. I then tried to do some aerobatics. As I was going up for a loop the plane pitched to the left. If I can remember correctly I was told that it was caused by the momentum of the propeller. It is also why you would rather do a stall turn to the left than to the right as the plane has a tendency to rather yaw to the left. After a few instructions I am happy to say that I was able to do a near perfect loop. I did a few stalls as well. Pitch the nose 80degrees up, lower engine power, give a lot of rudder to the left, wait for it to start yaw around and voila, increase the engine power again. (Please correct me if I am wrong) I then tried a hesitation roll but was astounded by the difficulty. Once you are knife edged you have to give a lot of counter rudder and once you are inverted you have to push the stick forward to counter a nose down tendency as well. I did not succeed after three tries but I am sure that with a little bit of practice it will be perfect!
We then went on to the Air Traffic Control room where they explained to me how everything works. It was quite a windy and overcast day but it cleared up in the afternoon and I was able to see the planes take off from the ATC room. I also saw how these guys go about doing their jobs and it seemed like they really enjoy doing it. They have a system that they follow once a plane taxi, takes off, gets rerouted and lands. How these guys keep up with everything and not mess it up is amazing. It would be awesome to be a Air Traffic Controller but I would much rather be flying!
As the planes taxied out to the runway we headed towards a hanger. Close up the Astra was a bit larger than what I thought but it was still a beautiful plane! I was allowed to sit in it and Lt. Theunissen said that if I wanted him to he can take a photo with my cellphone. Here it is:
We then went to the apron where Lt. Theunissen was able to snap this photo of me with Falcon 3, Cpt. Buti Tsebe's plane:
It was the end of my Job Shadowing opportunity and with a lot of sadness in my heart I had to leave AFB Langebaanweg. At least I know that we will be reunited in a few years and I hope that Langebaanweg would be ready for me! It truly was a day to remember and I really learned a lot.
Another side note - I just realized that the last time I have flown is 4 and a half months ago! Unfortunately I did not have any opportunities but I am trying my best to find someone that is willing to take me for a flip. If anyone knows of somebody that is willing to help me out, please leave a comment. I would really appreciate it a lot!
"For once you have tasted flight you will walk the earth with your eyes turned skywards, for there you have been and there you will long to return." - Leonardo Da Vinci
...Jaco over and out...
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Swellendam Airshow... What a day!
Saturday, 5 March 2011
It was an event to remember. I was at my first ever airshow and oh boy, did I enjoy it!
My mother and I set off to Swellegrebal Airstrip early morning. Since it was a 2 hour drive and the Airshow started at 10 o'clock we had to depart at 7:30 if we still wanted to have breakfast along the way as well. We had some chit chat about my aviation future and I could sense that see can see the passion I have for it.
On arrival I was overwhelmed by +-50 aircraft that surrounded me. It felt like home! I even had the thought that I would look out for a nice bush and build myself a shelter under it so that I can stay there overnight. As I got out of the car I could see 15 planes circling the airstrip. The show was a bit delayed as those planes still had to land. I didn't really mind as I could use that time to walk around the other aircraft and also look around the stalls. In one of the hangers was a Impala simulator. Its not just any simulator as that one was the whole front section of an Impala with all the knobs and buttons working. I used that time to play around on the simulator and try do some aerobatics.
While I was busy with the simulator I heard a jet pass overhead and quickly got out to see what it was. By the time I got there it was long gone. It circled around and I could see it was the L 39. I was able to get this shot of it:
After the L 39 landed it was the solo display of Maj. Skarda, Falcon 5, in his Pilatus PC7 Astra. His maneuvers was so smooth and gracefully executed. It was truly the epitome of perfection. The very slow vertical stall turns also made the crowd gasp for air a few times. Here is some photos I was able to take of him:
Maj. Skarda headed back to AFB Langebaanweg and the show was followed by a glider that grasped our attention with its amazing aerobatic maneuvers. I never knew that a glider was capable of executing such rolls and loops. It was truly a sight to behold.
The Pitts Special was next. The pilot happily showed off what a little agile aircraft such as the Pitts is capable of.
The Pitts was shortly followed by the Albatross. It did some low level passes and also some turning passes so that we could see how gracefully it moves through the air.
Next it was the L 39 that lit up the sky with its roaring jet engine and stunning aerobatics.
We were then greeted by the Bosbok which did some attacking dives and showed us what it was capable of.
Next it was the helicopter display. I was stunned to see what the Oryx and Agusta A109 is capable of. The very steep turns they could do, how agile they are, how quickly they could climb, the vertical turns, the 360's... It was really amazing to see the pilot and machine in harmony.
We were then greeted by the Harvard. The sound the Rolls Royce engine created was a big 'thump thump thump thump' such as a Harley Davidson. I stood in awe, listening to an engineering marvel flying overhead.
HAWK!! Yes, the next aircraft was the Hawk. All of a sudden, out of nowhere, it came rushing over the runway in a knife edge position, cockpit facing towards us. In one big 'woooosh' it was gone again, bolting up towards the heavens. It did a stall turn and came jetting towards the earth. It did a few low level passes and rolls as well but he most breathtaking maneuver must have been the super low pass over the runway. In fact, so low that he had to drop the wheels in case he might touch the ground.
The Hawk passing by very, very low - almost touching the ground at more or less 500Km/h:
That was it. We left a bit earlier (which I really did not want to) because of the blistering heat. It was truly a day to remember and I will cherish those memories forever. Here is a few photos of me with the L 39 and Harvard (Please excuse the blur as it was taken by other people)
Experiencing my first airshow, it is clear that my love for aviation and my aspiration of becoming a SAAF pilot is unfathomable.
On a side note - I visited AFB Langebaanweg today. I will keep that entry for another day as it takes quite a while to do a entry (Took me 3 hours for this one to get all the pictures, cropping, shrinking, writing etc...) I should have that post up by Friday night so please check back soon! :)
...Jaco over and out...
It was an event to remember. I was at my first ever airshow and oh boy, did I enjoy it!
My mother and I set off to Swellegrebal Airstrip early morning. Since it was a 2 hour drive and the Airshow started at 10 o'clock we had to depart at 7:30 if we still wanted to have breakfast along the way as well. We had some chit chat about my aviation future and I could sense that see can see the passion I have for it.
On arrival I was overwhelmed by +-50 aircraft that surrounded me. It felt like home! I even had the thought that I would look out for a nice bush and build myself a shelter under it so that I can stay there overnight. As I got out of the car I could see 15 planes circling the airstrip. The show was a bit delayed as those planes still had to land. I didn't really mind as I could use that time to walk around the other aircraft and also look around the stalls. In one of the hangers was a Impala simulator. Its not just any simulator as that one was the whole front section of an Impala with all the knobs and buttons working. I used that time to play around on the simulator and try do some aerobatics.
While I was busy with the simulator I heard a jet pass overhead and quickly got out to see what it was. By the time I got there it was long gone. It circled around and I could see it was the L 39. I was able to get this shot of it:
After the L 39 landed it was the solo display of Maj. Skarda, Falcon 5, in his Pilatus PC7 Astra. His maneuvers was so smooth and gracefully executed. It was truly the epitome of perfection. The very slow vertical stall turns also made the crowd gasp for air a few times. Here is some photos I was able to take of him:
Maj. Skarda headed back to AFB Langebaanweg and the show was followed by a glider that grasped our attention with its amazing aerobatic maneuvers. I never knew that a glider was capable of executing such rolls and loops. It was truly a sight to behold.
The Pitts Special was next. The pilot happily showed off what a little agile aircraft such as the Pitts is capable of.
The Pitts was shortly followed by the Albatross. It did some low level passes and also some turning passes so that we could see how gracefully it moves through the air.
Next it was the L 39 that lit up the sky with its roaring jet engine and stunning aerobatics.
We were then greeted by the Bosbok which did some attacking dives and showed us what it was capable of.
Next it was the helicopter display. I was stunned to see what the Oryx and Agusta A109 is capable of. The very steep turns they could do, how agile they are, how quickly they could climb, the vertical turns, the 360's... It was really amazing to see the pilot and machine in harmony.
We were then greeted by the Harvard. The sound the Rolls Royce engine created was a big 'thump thump thump thump' such as a Harley Davidson. I stood in awe, listening to an engineering marvel flying overhead.
HAWK!! Yes, the next aircraft was the Hawk. All of a sudden, out of nowhere, it came rushing over the runway in a knife edge position, cockpit facing towards us. In one big 'woooosh' it was gone again, bolting up towards the heavens. It did a stall turn and came jetting towards the earth. It did a few low level passes and rolls as well but he most breathtaking maneuver must have been the super low pass over the runway. In fact, so low that he had to drop the wheels in case he might touch the ground.
The Hawk passing by very, very low - almost touching the ground at more or less 500Km/h:
That was it. We left a bit earlier (which I really did not want to) because of the blistering heat. It was truly a day to remember and I will cherish those memories forever. Here is a few photos of me with the L 39 and Harvard (Please excuse the blur as it was taken by other people)
Experiencing my first airshow, it is clear that my love for aviation and my aspiration of becoming a SAAF pilot is unfathomable.
On a side note - I visited AFB Langebaanweg today. I will keep that entry for another day as it takes quite a while to do a entry (Took me 3 hours for this one to get all the pictures, cropping, shrinking, writing etc...) I should have that post up by Friday night so please check back soon! :)
...Jaco over and out...
Monday, February 28, 2011
I am starting to feel like a pilot!
The month of February passed very quickly. We were very busy at school and on some days I only got home after 8 o'clock! Alas, the busyness has ended and I can now focus on the task that lies ahead!
Even though we were so busy I still got time to study some of the CPL notes I have. I can now confidently say that I know the basic principles of flight - lift, drag, stability etc... Once you start with a chapter its really hard to put it down because once you have started and understand how it works, you just want to know more and more... It's like a drug, but a healthy one! I might seem like a nerd to others... Sitting at a bench in break times with a sarmie in one hand and my CPL book in the other. Good times indeed!
As mentioned in my previous entry, I have phoned Lt. Col. Jaco Labuschagne. What I can recall is that he said I must phone him somewhere early March. I think I will do so on Thursday so that we can arrange that meeting at AFB Langebaanweg.
In the past week I also did a Facebook clean up. I deleted most of the people I don't even really know. (Yes, I know its of topic, but there's more...!) I started to invite some of the guys I know that is in the SAAF. Mosty the members from the Silver Falcons. I had a chance to speak to a few of them actually...
Buti Tsebe -
always great hearing from motivated youngsters like yourself! Don't ever let go of the dream and always reach for the stars no matter how far they might seem" ...I also spoke to him and was able to arrange a meet and greet whenever time allows us to. Actually, it was his idea! I will definitely make a entry about that as well... :D
Roy Sproul - He was the first person I spoke to. I told him that I will be visit Langebaanweg soon and he said that I must let him know when I will be there so that I can meet Team 71! How awesome is that?!
I couldn't be happier at this moment... Wait, I can! If I was up there somewhere!!! You get the point... :)
As routine I always visit the Saairforce forum before I go to bed. Tonight I had a huge surprise waiting for me! There is going to be a Airshow at Swellendam this Saturday! My first ever Airshow!! Yes, I know... I never had the opportunity to go to one but I now have my parents' support and I am able to go. I cant wait! It is going to be a day to remember!
Ohh and I almost forgot the most awesome thing! There was a article in our local newspaper about a rumor that they might build a airfield in our town sometime in the near future. Everything is starting to fall into place! ...Love it.
I should be more active on my blog in the next month or so so please check back regularly! All your support and inspirational sayings is very, very much appreciated! I'm actually thinking of posting a nice quote after every entry as well. If you have a nice quote, inspirational saying please inbox me and I will attach it at the end with your name... :)
To end of with, here is a picture of Major Scott Ternent's favorite aircraft!
F22 Raptor
SAAF Mirage F1
...Jaco over and out...
Monday, January 31, 2011
I need to fly...
Well, it has been about 2 months since I have flown. The need to fly is killing me. I sit at school, listening to the planes passing overhead and just wishing I could be in them. I just keep on telling myself: 'Only a few more years to go, Jaco!'
This last week I tried to solve my problem of not being able to fly... sort of. Since the SAAF recommends not to have a PPL or CPL, I will do a Paragliding License! Okay, I know it isn't really close to flying in a plane but I do get to view the earth from above, the one place in this world I long to be. I spoke to my brother and he said he will do it with me. There's only one problem though, training takes 15days and I don't have that much time whilst still at school so maybe I will do it next year.
I also phoned Lt. Col. Jaco Labuschagne to chat about the day tour at AFB Langebaanweg. He wont be flying at Langebaanweg for the next three weeks so we have to reschedule for early March. The day tour is also going to have to be mid week, not over the weekend as I thought. That's not a problem though... School? or having a tour around a AFB? I think the answer is quite obvious...
If anyone knows of a pilot around the Hermanus area that is willing to give me a flip in one of their planes, please contact me? I am willing to pay for all the expenses. Thanks a lot in advance! (Holds thumbs for a reply...)
...Jaco over and out...
This last week I tried to solve my problem of not being able to fly... sort of. Since the SAAF recommends not to have a PPL or CPL, I will do a Paragliding License! Okay, I know it isn't really close to flying in a plane but I do get to view the earth from above, the one place in this world I long to be. I spoke to my brother and he said he will do it with me. There's only one problem though, training takes 15days and I don't have that much time whilst still at school so maybe I will do it next year.
Beautifull Paragliding View
I also phoned Lt. Col. Jaco Labuschagne to chat about the day tour at AFB Langebaanweg. He wont be flying at Langebaanweg for the next three weeks so we have to reschedule for early March. The day tour is also going to have to be mid week, not over the weekend as I thought. That's not a problem though... School? or having a tour around a AFB? I think the answer is quite obvious...
If anyone knows of a pilot around the Hermanus area that is willing to give me a flip in one of their planes, please contact me? I am willing to pay for all the expenses. Thanks a lot in advance! (Holds thumbs for a reply...)
...Jaco over and out...
Monday, January 3, 2011
Its a New Year!
Gone with 2010 and hello 2011! Its been a while since I last posted on my blog and no, I did NOT forget about it... I was too busy loving holiday and enjoying it to the utmost! Not a lot of important things happened in the last month or so... Got fit for athletics, surfed quite a bit, stared at all the planes passing overhead... STUDIED some CPL notes I got from our Head Boys' dad... Just the basics really, air law etc... Its a lot, and I mean a lot of study work to do if you want to know everything. Everything all together is 11 of those thick files with more or less 300 pages of study work in a file! But oh well, welcome to aviation!
This is a very exciting year that lies ahead! Especially all the activities and events the matric council will be arranging. I will not just focus on schoolwork and staying fit for selections but also building my knowledge about aviation by doing as much study work as I can. I want to be in tip-top condition when I go for selections.
I also lost contact with Uncle Nico. He is a very busy man and for that reason I don't think I can fly with him anymore, unfortunately. I haven't really heard of Aristide or Heather lately so I don't think I will be seeing them anytime soon either. At the moment I'm back where I started but with the passion and love for aviation growing exponentially by the day. I have to find someone living close by that I can fly with (not that I have to but I NEED to...) I'll even pay the AVGAS... I'll work over weekends in our butchery for some AVGAS money!
A few people I have spoken to has asked me why I don't do my Private Pilot License. The answer is simple, its not very cheap. And say I do have my PPL - okay, so now I am a Private Pilot but that won't help me get into SAAF. Yes, it might show them that I am dedicated but I can show them that anyway. I also heard that SAAF wants 'fresh' pilots. In other words, they want applicants that doesn't have a PPL or a CPL so that they can train them from the start. Military training is still, in my opinion, the best training you can get. Although some people may differ with me. I also like to compare it to driving. Say you taught yourself or someone else taught you to drive, you learn bad habits that is WRONG. After a while you do it subconsciously and struggle to 'unlearn' yourself. Exactly the same with flying...
I didn't get the chance to go to AFB Langebaanweg for the day tour as my parents was way to busy in the butchery over the festive season. I spoke to Catherine again and arranged to go there sometime in the late January or early February. As promised, I will do a post about that trip as well.
This upcoming Saturday we will be departing on the MSC Melody for the middle of nowhere. My family, myself and a few friends will be heading into the deep ocean on a luxury cruise liner. I'm very excited as this will be my first time on a really big boat.
That's about it for now. As soon as I get a flying opportunity or something in those lines, I will post it here.
To end off with; here is a picture of the most beautiful fighter ever built!
Happy New Year and may this new year bring many opportunities your way, to explore every joy of life and may your resolutions for the days ahead stay firm, turning all your dreams into reality and all your efforts into great achievements!
...Jaco over and out...
This is a very exciting year that lies ahead! Especially all the activities and events the matric council will be arranging. I will not just focus on schoolwork and staying fit for selections but also building my knowledge about aviation by doing as much study work as I can. I want to be in tip-top condition when I go for selections.
I also lost contact with Uncle Nico. He is a very busy man and for that reason I don't think I can fly with him anymore, unfortunately. I haven't really heard of Aristide or Heather lately so I don't think I will be seeing them anytime soon either. At the moment I'm back where I started but with the passion and love for aviation growing exponentially by the day. I have to find someone living close by that I can fly with (not that I have to but I NEED to...) I'll even pay the AVGAS... I'll work over weekends in our butchery for some AVGAS money!
A few people I have spoken to has asked me why I don't do my Private Pilot License. The answer is simple, its not very cheap. And say I do have my PPL - okay, so now I am a Private Pilot but that won't help me get into SAAF. Yes, it might show them that I am dedicated but I can show them that anyway. I also heard that SAAF wants 'fresh' pilots. In other words, they want applicants that doesn't have a PPL or a CPL so that they can train them from the start. Military training is still, in my opinion, the best training you can get. Although some people may differ with me. I also like to compare it to driving. Say you taught yourself or someone else taught you to drive, you learn bad habits that is WRONG. After a while you do it subconsciously and struggle to 'unlearn' yourself. Exactly the same with flying...
I didn't get the chance to go to AFB Langebaanweg for the day tour as my parents was way to busy in the butchery over the festive season. I spoke to Catherine again and arranged to go there sometime in the late January or early February. As promised, I will do a post about that trip as well.
This upcoming Saturday we will be departing on the MSC Melody for the middle of nowhere. My family, myself and a few friends will be heading into the deep ocean on a luxury cruise liner. I'm very excited as this will be my first time on a really big boat.
That's about it for now. As soon as I get a flying opportunity or something in those lines, I will post it here.
To end off with; here is a picture of the most beautiful fighter ever built!
The French Manufactured Dassault Rafale
Happy New Year and may this new year bring many opportunities your way, to explore every joy of life and may your resolutions for the days ahead stay firm, turning all your dreams into reality and all your efforts into great achievements!
...Jaco over and out...
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