From a lone Piper Tri-Pacer landing in 1960 to a bustling hub with over 230 members
By Willie Bodenstein
04.10.2025
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In 1960, Jack Taylor landed his Piper Tri-Pacer (ZS-CEX) on a small field in Krugersdorp. What seemed like an ordinary landing became a historic event: the start of what would grow into one of South Africa's most active flying clubs.
Attempts to establish an airfield in Krugersdorp had failed in 1934 and again in 1945. But in the late 1950s, aviation enthusiasts finally saw their dream realised when Jack Taylor and J.W. Jones, with the support of Krugersdorp councillor Steve Wentzel, laid the foundation for an airfield of their own.
John William (Jack) Taylor, after whom the field is named, learned to fly at Baragwanath in 1959 on Tiger Moths. He earned his Private Pilot's Licence on 11 March 1960 and soon purchased his first aircraft, the Piper Tri-Pacer 150 (ZS-CEX).
Later that year, a 2,100 ft (640 m) strip was graded at Delporton, just west of the Davis Gelatine Works. Taylor made the first landing there, and the site became home to HMS Krugersdorp, as the airfield is affectionately known. Built atop a hill, its approach to runway 26 includes a dramatic 200-foot cliff, making every aircraft carrier like landing a memorable one.
The first hangar, built by Taylor and Jones using steel tubing, corrugated iron, and timber, housed Taylor's Tri-Pacer as well as another purchased by L.A. Davis and Trevor Battersby. That original hangar still stands today as part of the club.
By March 1961, the newly formed Krugersdorp Flying Club (KFC) already had 25 members. Taylor was elected chairman, Battersby vice-chairman, and Wentzel club president. Taylor would go on to serve as chairman and president until October 1998, leaving an enduring legacy.
Today, KFC is both the operator and licensee of Jack Taylor Airfield, located 2 nm west of Krugersdorp (Mogale City) at 5,500 feet elevation, just beneath Lanseria's TMA. Its position on the West Rand offers quieter, less congested skies, making flying more relaxed and scenic with no stacking required.
The club has flourished into one of South Africa's busiest. With almost 120 aircraft, 110 hangars, and over 230 active members and still growing Jack Taylor offers a home for aviation of every kind, from Tiger Moths and Pietenpols to the latest Vans RVs.
Flight training has always been a cornerstone. The first school, Reef Air, was founded in 1969 by Louis van Wyngaard and Walter Martin, later evolving into Krugersdorp Flying School in the early 1990s. Today, Alpi Aviation and Helivate continue the tradition from the field.
By 1975, six aircraft were registered to Krugersdorp owners, including Jack Taylor's Piper Cherokee 235 (ZS-JWT) and Walter Martin's Cessna 210K (ZS-TMM). A major upgrade came in 1984, when runway 08/26 was tarred and extended to 2,402 ft (732 m), complemented by a grass cross-runway (17/35). As hangar space at Lanseria and Grand Central grew scarce and costly, Jack Taylor Airfield boomed with new construction. By the late 1980s, a clubhouse and control tower were added.
The airfield has also fostered a strong tradition of aviation events. On 28 April 1962, KFC hosted its first rally, kicking off decades of spot landings, competitions, fly-ins and rallies. The club remains deeply involved in every facet of aviation, from restoration projects to award-winning flying days.
Its setting adds to the appeal. With the Magaliesburg mountains stretching across the horizon, the clubhouse offers panoramic views westward from Zwartkops. Attractions nearby include the Mogale City Nature Reserve, the world-famous Sterkfontein Caves, the Rhino & Lion Park, and the Cradle of Humankind.
The 26 South Restaurant, housed in the clubhouse, recently having undergone a magnificent renovation to both the restaurant as well as the bar area has always been a favourite gathering spot for members and visitors alike. It will no doubt now be even more popular. Monthly member meetings are held every second Tuesday, often ending with sundowners against the backdrop of unforgettable sunsets.
With Lanseria and the Magaliesburg general flying area just a six-minute hop away, the airfield continues to thrive as both a hub of aviation and a social home for enthusiasts.
The club went all to make the 65th anniversary something really special and Brian Appleton and I had planned to fly in Brian's stunning Chippy. This was unfortunately not to be. Nature had different plans, it brought winter back and just to add to the fun mixed in unflyable winds with low wet clouds.
I drove through hoping for better weather but that was not to be. Pity the club and the vendors who have bravely set up their gazebos and merchandise. Those of that did arrive enjoyed the conviviality of the cozy clubhouse. With no signs of the weather clearing after a scrumptious breakfast I made my way home.
I've no doubt that the club will continue to grow and I plan, if I'm spared, to attend its 70th anniversary.
Radial Rocket Flying at Jack Taylor Airfield 2025 89
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