The SAAF Museum Swartkop Flying Day - 1 November 2025
By Willie Bodenstein
01.11.2025
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Once a month, usually on the first Saturday, weather permitting, the Swartkop branch of the South African Air Force Museum hosts an open day during which its pilots are kept current on the museum's flyable assets. The other two branches are located in Cape Town and Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth).
AFB Swartkop, South Africa's oldest air force base, was originally established as Air Force Station (AFS) Zwartkop in April 1921 and upgraded to an Air Force Base on 1 February 1968. The base is home to the museum's headquarters and is the largest of the three locations, occupying at least five hangars on this still-operational base.
The Windsock were one can purchase memorabilia
The open days also serve as fundraisers for the Friends of the Museum, a non-profit organisation run and staffed entirely by volunteers dedicated to helping the SAAF Museum preserve the proud heritage of the South African Air Force.
   
Some of the museum's extensive collection of the SAAF's modern era lead in fighters
Gates open at 07:30, and the public is warmly welcomed. Entry is free, although donations are appreciated. Flying usually begins around 09:00, allowing visitors time to grab breakfast and explore the museum's extensive static collection of historic SAAF aircraft.
One must remember that the museum's current airworthy fleet averages more than 50 years of age and requires constant tender, loving care to keep these graceful old ladies aloft where they belong.
Visiting the museum is like stepping back in time to witness aviation history in motion; to hear the distinctive roar of radial engines, the unmistakable whine of helicopter turbines, and the legendary rumble of Pratt & Whitney and Lycoming powerplants as they take to the skies in an unforgettable display of heritage and skill.
The Spitfire project hangar nearing completion
   
Some of the WWII utility aircraft
But it's not just about the flying. The family-friendly atmosphere, extensive static displays (both in hangars and outdoors), numerous photo opportunities, and a selection of food stalls make each open day a must for aviation enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
For those wishing to get involved, the Swartkop branch currently has five active restoration projects: the Spitfire, Shackleton, Canberra, Buccaneer, and Sikorsky helicopter initiative. The Sikorsky R-4 was the world's first large-scale, mass-produced helicopter. Its prototype, the XR-4, first flew on 14 January 1942, and the R-4 became the first helicopter to enter mass production in 1943-1944. In 1948, it also became the first helicopter to fly in Africa.
Flighline action
The Cape Town branch's Shackleton has been fully restored and now regularly performs spectacular night runs. The branch is also making steady progress with its Buccaneer restoration project.
The FSAAFM Swartkop branch is currently in need of wheelbarrows and general gardening equipment to help volunteers keep the base in top condition for the public. If you're able to assist, please contact Ian Grace on 082 452 5291.
The branch extends heartfelt thanks to the recent donors who contributed a brush cutter and a lawnmower, both of which, I can attest, are being put to excellent use!
Why not make it one of your New Year's resolutions to get involved with the museum and its branches? You'll spend time with dedicated, passionate, and wonderful people serving a truly worthwhile cause, preserving the proud history of the SAAF, the second-oldest air force in the world.
All photos by Willie Bodenstein
For more information visit the SAAF Museum Swartkop or the Friends of the SAAF Museum Facebook pages.
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