LOOK: SA Air Force’s new instructor pilots, one from Durban

Durban — Major Gideon Michael Andries Grobbelaar, an Oryx Helicopter Pilot from 15 Squadron, Air Force Base Durban, is one of six South African Air Force new instructor pilots.

Major Mpho Mathebula said that over the period between June 24, 2022, and July 5, 2022, six pilots of the South African Air Force qualified as Category C Pilot Instructors, after having completed a gruelling, 18-month training programme at the Central Flying School, Air Force Base Langebaanweg.

“Qualifying as a Pilot Instructor in the South African Air Force is inclusive of being tested by Chief Instructors after undergoing a three month facilitators and assessors course, followed by Air Transport Ground School, PC7 Ground School, after which flying begins,” Mathebula said.

The six new pilots to join the pilot instructor core in the SA Air Force are:

• Major Thlalefo Ronald Moroole, a Rooivalk Attack Helicopter Pilot from 16 Squadron, Air Force Base Bloemspruit;

• Major Kediatutsakhutjo Mashile, a PC-12 transport Pilot from 41 Squadron, Air Force Base Waterkloof;

• Major Zanele Constance Vayeke, an Oryx Helicopter Pilot from 17 Squadron, Air Force Base Swartkop;

• Major Rialevhuwa Maleba, an Oryx Helicopter Pilot from 17 Squadron, Air Force Base Swartkop;

• Major Gideon Michael Andries Grobbelaar, an Oryx Helicopter Pilot from 15 Squadron, Air Force Base Durban; and

• Major London Boitumelo Kgetha, a CASA 212 Transport Pilot from 44 Squadron, Air Force Base Waterkloof.

“The newly qualified C Category Pilot Instructors will be remaining at the Central Flying School, Air Force Base Langebaanweg in order to give instruction to Pupil Pilots,” Mathebula said.

Daily News

• SANDF sets the record straight on the US military’s presence in SA

• SANDF committed and continues to protect, secure borders

• Newcastle Airshow’s 10th anniversary a ‘soaring success’

• Auditor-General visits Durban Air Force Base damaged by April floods