The 14th Annual Kroon Fly-In - In Conjunction with MISASA
By Jaco Pitout
07.06.2025
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I've often wondered-what truly makes a great fly-in? Perhaps it's the variety of aircraft, the lively atmosphere, or even the irresistible food that draws both pilots and the public to these events. Whatever the secret ingredient is, the Kroon Fly-In certainly has it. This past weekend marked the 14th Annual Kroon Fly-In, and I had the pleasure of attending to capture the action.
I arrived at Kroon Airfield just after 6 AM on Saturday, greeted by a hive of activity. Vendors were busy setting up their stalls, both inside and outside the hangars, adding to the anticipation of the day ahead. With pristine flying conditions, eager pilots wasted no time in getting airborne. At first light, a gaggle of aviators and their trusted flying machines took to the skies.
Not long after the crisp sunrise, arrivals began ramping up. The morning air was chilly, but remarkably still-perfect flying weather!
As part of the arrivals, visiting pilots were tested with a spot landing challenge positioned at the approach end of Runway 29. The designated landing area was marked with reflective tape and collapsible cones, with prizes set to be awarded later in the day.
Observing the arrivals from the runway's edge, I took a moment to admire the diversity of aircraft, noting the distinct speed differences between them. Listening to pilots coordinate on local frequency 124.8, I was struck by their precision and discipline, showcasing South Africa's world-class recreational flying standards.
Marius Nel and Kevin Wood of Rosslyn Micro Flyers were at the heart of ensuring everything ran smoothly, leaving nothing to chance. Their dedication and meticulous attention to detail played a key role in the event's success. The duo even took to LekkerFM, a local community radio station, to promote the gathering. Meanwhile, Nelis Jansen van Rensburg managed ground operations with expert coordination.
In the days leading up to the event, masked members of the Kroon Flying community embarked on mischievous escapades at nearby airfields. One such target was the Brits Flying Club, home to the beloved stuffed chicken, "Hoendertjie." This cherished mascot was stealthily intercepted at the Brits Airfield birthday celebration and transported to Kroon Airfield-held for ransom. The condition for its safe return? Brits Flying Club had to attend the Kroon Fly-In to reclaim their feathery friend.
As the day unfolded, members of Brits Flying Club enlisted a special operations skydiving team and an Alouette III helicopter for an audacious rescue mission. In the spirit of fun, this thrilling spectacle captivated the attending crowd.
As shadows lengthened, some visiting pilots and crews departed for home, while others opted to stay overnight. Organizers ensured well-appointed ablutions and neatly arranged camping spots, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the evening entertainment. Pilots could enjoy live bands on stage, and rugby match played on a big screen under the stars.
No fly-in would be complete without the people who make it special. I took the opportunity to capture the smiling faces that embodied the warm spirit of the event.
The Kroon Fly-In continues to grow in stature each year, yet never loses its distinctive charm. It remains a must-attend event, promising excitement, camaraderie, and a shared love of aviation.
In closing, the organizers extend their gratitude to MISASA and John Boucher for their invaluable support in making this event a resounding success.
