This Week in Midweek Updates
Africa Aerospace and Defence opens trade and media registration.
Exciting news for the South African Aviation Industry!
Century Avionics receives Garmin Aviation Platinum Dealer Award.
The Shuttleworth Trust Spitfire anniversary excitement as Shuttleworth sees record sales for Summer Air Show.
South Africa's SoterJets launches fractional program.
Cutting-edge aviation technology to be featured at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 on July 21.
Saab signs contract for Gripen E for Ukraine.
Joby Aviation and Toyota Motor Corporation launch initial phase of a strategic manufacturing alliance.
This week in history - The Royal Air Force rigid airship R 34 landed at Mineola, Long Island, New York, completing the first east-to-west Atlantic crossing by air.
Bonus video - Sport Aerobatics Regionals Klerksdorp.
Africa Aerospace and Defence Opens Trade and Media Registration
The 13th edition of Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) is scheduled to take place from 16-20 September 2026, at Air Force Base Waterkloof in Centurion, Gauteng. As the largest and only tri-service exhibition and air show on the African continent, AAD holds a prominent position in South Africa's and the continent's defence industry calendar.
The AAD exhibition organizing team is thrilled to announce that registration is now open for trade visitors and media ahead of the AAD 2026 expo. As the largest trade and air show in Africa, this year's event is set to attract over 40,000 trade visitors who will have the opportunity to engage with more than 300 exhibitors from the aerospace and defence sectors. The trade exhibition will span three days (16 to 18 September 2026), providing ample opportunity for industry professionals to engage, network, and explore the latest advancements in aerospace and defence technology.
Following the trade exhibition, the highly anticipated air show will be open to the public from 19 to 20 September 2026. With an anticipated attendance of 60,000 spectators, this year's air show promises thrilling aerobatics and displays by a diverse array of aircraft.
This biennial event continues to draw international attention, with an increasing number of distinguished companies securing their place at Africa's flagship aerospace and defence showcase. The addition of more exhibitors underscores AAD's role as the premier stage for innovation, collaboration, and industry growth.
Building on the success of AAD 2024, the trade show has grown significantly, attracting major industry players globally to showcase cutting-edge technological innovations in aviation, aerospace and defence. It also provides a critical platform for dialogue and discourse on international defence, aerospace, and related best practices.
Additionally, AAD provides a stage for local suppliers and SMEs, supports local industries and encourages innovation, enhancing the global competitiveness of the African aerospace and defence sectors. The event's influence extends beyond immediate economic benefits, contributing to long-term industry growth and development, and inspiring future generations to engage with these dynamic fields.
Exciting News for the South African Aviation Industry!
We are proud to announce the launch of Aero Vibe, a fresh new premium printed aviation magazine created to showcase the lifestyle, business, innovation, and passion of aviation across South Africa and beyond.
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With the support and reach of Pilots Post's established aviation network and subscriber base, Aero Vibe aims to become a leading voice in the aviation community through engaging editorial, industry features, aircraft showcases, helicopter content, aviation lifestyle stories, events coverage, and business opportunities.
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We invite aviation businesses, brands, lodges, flight schools, insurance companies, charter operators, aviation suppliers, tourism partners, and lifestyle brands to be part of this exciting launch edition.
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Century Avionics Receives Garmin Aviation Platinum Dealer Award
Century Avionics was honoured to receive the 2025 Garmin Aviation Platinum Dealer Award at AERO South Africa this past month, in recognition of its outstanding performance as a Garmin Aviation Dealer.
The Platinum Dealer Award places Century Avionics among Garmin's top-tier aviation dealers worldwide and reflects excellence in sales, technical expertise, product knowledge, and customer service.
Based at Lanseria International Airport, Century Avionics has been an authorised Garmin Aviation Dealer for more than two decades. Their long-standing partnership dates to the early years of Garmin's presence in the aviation industry, having built their reputation on some of the very first GPS-100 installations in South Africa.
This achievement is a testament to the dedication of the entire Century Avionics team and their continued commitment to delivering world-class avionics solutions and support to the aviation community.
The Shuttleworth Trust Spitfire Anniversary Excitement as Shuttleworth sees Record Sales for Summer Air Show
Shuttleworth, Bedfordshire visitor attraction and event venue home to some of the world's oldest airworthy examples of historic aircraft and Regency Swiss Garden, has seen a record increase in ticket sales (up over 120% in June 2026 in comparison to June 2025) for its Summer Air Show on 25 July 2026, with just under a month still to go to the event.
This success reflects the passion of the British public for the Spitfire, as this year's event celebrates the 90th anniversary of the first flight of the Spitfire, the WWII legend that played a key role in the Battle of Britain and D-Day. To commemorate this iconic aircraft, Shuttleworth will have ten Spitfires flying, representing different marks as the Spitfire evolved throughout WWII. Many of the exact Spitfires confirmed to be flying at Shuttleworth saw real action in WWII, including during the build-up and aftermath of the Normandy landings and the evacuation of Dunkirk.
Beyond the Spitfire celebration, Shuttleworth will be joined by other visiting aircraft, including a Hispano Buchon used in the film Dunkirk, a Boeing 727, and Europe's only airworthy MiG-17F, an aircraft which played a significant role in Polish Military Aviation during the Cold War. A range of aircraft from Shuttleworth's own collection of aircraft ranging from 1909-1950s will also fly at the event.
There will also be a range of ground attractions, including a funfair with a big wheel, teacups, and trampolines, Clayton & Shuttleworth heritage exhibits, the Bofors anti-aircraft gun, educational Discovery Zones, and vintage bus rides. Shuttleworth's Swiss Garden will also be open for visitors to explore.
Marc Boult, Head of Visitor Operations at Shuttleworth, commented: “The excitement of visitors whenever a Spitfire takes to the skies at our air shows speaks volumes about its lasting significance. Reaching this record level of sales means we can go even further in delivering our charitable objectives.”
South Africa's SoterJets Launches Fractional Program
SoterJets, a subsidiary of South Africa's CFS Aviation Group, has launched a fractional aircraft ownership program that the company said is the first of its kind in Africa. The program's first aircraft, a Pilatus PC-12 NG, was delivered in April and is now fully subscribed by four co-owners.
“For many years, fractional ownership has been an underserved opportunity in the regional business aviation market,” said CFS Aviation Group CEO Justin Reeves. “The speed at which we fully subscribed and successfully delivered our first aircraft demonstrates both the demand for this model and the confidence that investors have placed in the SoterJets proposition.”
SoterJets said it has secured a significant commitment toward a second PC-12 turboprop single. Co-owners acquire a beneficial interest in an aircraft while SoterJets manages operational requirements, including crew, maintenance, airworthiness compliance, insurance, and administration. The program bills for occupied flight hours and fixed monthly management fees, according to SoterJets.
CFS Aviation Group has operated and supported PC-12s since 2007. SoterJets said future preowned PC-12 additions will be selected to the same standard ahead of delivery of its first new-production PC-12 PRO in 2028.
Cutting-Edge Aviation Technology to be Featured at EAA Airventure Oshkosh 2026 on July 21
The future of aviation technology will be highlighted on July 21 as EAA AirVenture Oshkosh continues its annual tradition of featuring the latest innovations as part of displays on Boeing Plaza and demonstrations during the Tuesday air show. The 73rd annual Experimental Aircraft Association fly-in convention is July 20-26 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh.
“EAA AirVenture Oshkosh is the focal point of the calendar for the aviation community every year, making it the perfect opportunity for companies to showcase what is on the horizon,” said Rick Larsen, EAA's vice president of communities and member programs, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions. “The collection of innovations taking the stage on Tuesday represent just part of where aviation is heading.”
Boeing Plaza will be packed with aircraft to celebrate the theme. Currently planned innovation displays for July 21 include BETA Technologies, Bye Aerospace, Jetson, American Drone, MagniX, Zipline, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Airhart Aeronautics, Merlin Labs, Amazon Delivery, and Starlight Productions
In addition to the displays on Boeing Plaza, Bye Aerospace, Jetson, BETA Technologies, American Drone, and ScaleWings will fly during the afternoon air show. Drone delivery company Wing will display the latest developments in its operations at Twilight Flight Fest.
The July 21 air show lineup is subject to change without notice. A full lineup for the show, along with the rest of the week, is available on the Air Show page of the AirVenture website.
Saab Signs Contract for Gripen E for Ukraine
Saab has today signed a contract with the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) for 16 Gripen E fighter aircraft for Ukraine. The order value corresponds to approximately SEK 24.6 billion and the order will be booked in the third quarter 2026. Saab's deliveries to FMV are scheduled to take place 2029-2030.
In addition to the 16 Gripen E fighter aircraft the contract also includes spare parts and associated items and equipment.
"I am deeply proud that Sweden and Saab can now enable the provision of Gripen E to Ukraine, bringing a world-class fighter that will transform the Ukrainian Air Force's capability. This will significantly strengthen Ukraine's air defence and help ensure the nation can protect its people and safeguard its future,” says Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab.
Gripen is designed to address advanced threats in demanding environments. Operational flexibility and resilience enable operations from short stretches, temporary runways or roads, supporting dispersed operations and high availability. The software-based architecture facilitates continuous upgrades and adaption to evolving operational requirements. With low maintenance requirements and fast turnaround, Gripen provides an advanced and cost-effective fighter capability that is easy to operate and maintain.
Joby Aviation and Toyota Motor Corporation Launch Initial Phase of a Strategic Manufacturing Alliance
Joby Aviation, Inc. (NYSE: JOBY) and Toyota Motor Corporation today announced the initial phase of their strategic manufacturing alliance by establishing the Joint Venture to realize air mobility. This will combine Joby's pioneering work in electric aviation with Toyota's globally recognized expertise in production systems and operational excellence.
The Strategic Alliance will initially focus on establishing the groundwork for commercial production, and advancing manufacturing excellence, with particular emphasis on further improving productivity, quality, and cost. Going forward, it will also support the expansion of Joby's production capacity to support aircraft certification and meet anticipated growth in demand for its electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
Toyota has been by Joby's side for nearly a decade, providing invaluable guidance and support as we built the foundation for manufacturing our aircraft,” said JoeBen Bevirt, founder and CEO of Joby Aviation. “Today's announcement reflects the strength of our relationship and our shared confidence in the opportunity ahead. Together, we share a vision of making aerial mobility an everyday reality, and we look forward to delivering on that promise together.”
Akio Toyoda, Chairman of Toyota Motor Corporation, commented: “Since our founding, we've been guided by the philosophy of providing mobility for all. Over time, we've continued to expand what mobility can mean. We see air mobility as a natural extension of that philosophy-from the ground into the sky-and as a way to bring new value to people's lives and to society. It's really meaningful for us to take on this challenge together with Joby, a partner that shares the same vision. We believe this strengthened relationship is an important step forward in realizing the future mobility society.”
Going forward, both companies will continue to work closely together through this Joint Venture, leveraging their respective strengths to bring air mobility to society on a broader scale.
2-6 July 1919
Two weeks after Alcock and Brown made the first non-stop transatlantic airplane flight, the Royal Air Force rigid airship R 34 landed at Mineola, Long Island, New York, completing the first east-to-west Atlantic crossing by air. The airship was under the command of Major George Herbert Scott, A.F.C., R.A.F. The total complement, including passengers, was 30 persons.
The 108 hour, 12 minute flight started from East Fortune Airship Station near Edinburgh, Scotland at 2:38 a.m., British Summer Time (1:38 a.m., Greenwich mean time) on Wednesday, 2 July. R 34 arrived at Mineola at 9:54 a.m. Eastern Daylight Savings Time (1:54 p.m. G.M.T.) on Sunday, 6 July. According to records of the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale, the distance flown by R 34 was 5,797 kilometers (3,602 miles). On arrival, the airship had only 40 minutes of fuel remaining.
R 34 was based on extensive study of the captured German Zeppelin, L-33. It was built for the Royal Naval Air Service ¹ by William Beardmore and Company, Inchinnan, Renfrewshire, Scotland. 643 feet long (196 meters), with a maximum diameter of 78 feet, 9 inches (24 meters), the dirigible had a total volume of 1,950,000 cubic feet (55,218 cubic meters). The airship had a light weight metal structure covered with doped fabric. Buoyancy was provided by 55,185 cubic meters (1,948,840 cubic feet) of gaseous hydrogen contained in 19 gas bags inside the airship's envelope. R 34 had a gross lift capacity of 59 tons. Useful lift was 58,240 pounds (26,417 kilograms).
Mali, near Gao: A military Su-24 aircraft from the Africa Corps crashed near Gao after coming under fire in the Anefis region.
Argentina, Near Toledo, Cordoba: A 42-year-old flight instructor died after apparently falling from a small plane. The incident occurred in a rural area of Toledo, in the Río Segundo department, after the aircraft took off from Coronel Olmedo Airport. According to sources, the man was accompanying a 22-year-old student at the time of the fatal fall. The young woman managed to land the plane and reported the incident.
USA, near Harrison County Airport (0I8), Cynthiana, KY: A Monnett Sonerai II, N1406, was destroyed when it crashed in a field for unknown reasons and caught fire near 0I8. The pilot was not injured. The accident occurred during a third touch-and-go attempt, the airplane was observed on a climbing left turn from runway 29 into the pattern, and the last ADS-B data point showed a groundspeed of 40 knots. The pilot reported "losing control of the plane and trying to make a landing in the level field but did not have enough power." During the two previous initial climbs, the groundspeed was observed at ~50 knots and higher.
