Barnstormers Air Show 2026
By Willie Bodenstein
31.10.2026
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Barnstormers seldom disappoint and Saturday was no exception. I arrived even before the gates were properly open and it was a rather strangely chilly morning little did I know that it would eventually reach into the early thirties. Fortunately by then I was safely and comfortably seated on the first floor clubhouse open balcony the ideal place from which to record the day's happenings.
By now most, if not all of you, must know where Barnstromers, one of the premier RC clubs, is situated but just in case you don't it is on the R24 east between Kempton Park and Bapsfontein on the left past the ERWAT water works and just after the crossing the railway bridge onto the dirt road just before bridge over the river.
The field upon my arrival
The obligatory safety briefing
and something really special........................
The shady paved preparation area was a hive of activity as participants set about assembling their pride and joy for the displays that were to follow.
 
Some participants opted to the do their assembling closer to their camping area
Later on, as the morning progresses and more visitors arrived seeking shade from the typical Highveld sun the preparation area became the choice spot from which to watch the action.
By then, fortunately most of the participating aircraft were moved to safety and the grass apron.
A nice touch at Branstormers was the continuous expert commentary supplied by Garry Lees who acted as a roving reporter keeping all informed as the action continued.
   
I thought it may be time that we are really shown who actually does the flying .............
       
But then it would also be fitting to show some of the real people who are so passionate and so willing to share their skills and wonderful machines...............
 
And then there was John and Barbara Julicher who shared my spot on the balcony and who brought their delightful grandson Riley, a future pilot in the making to take it all in.
Kicking off the estimated forty plus entries to the day's proceedings were the Oldtimers. From then on it was action all the way.
 
 
 
 
  
 
Taking a hint from full size air shows Barnstormers has always ended its show the rather spectacular bombing of a city and this year was no different.
 
Many, many thanks to the wonderful folks at Barnstormers for their hospitality and congratulations on hosting an event that you can be truly proud off.
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