25 Sep 2016

Gaborone International Airshow thrilled the multitudes of people that had thronged the Sir Seretse Khama International Airport amidst the scorching heat over the weekend.

Marketing manager at Botswana Tourism Organisation (BTO), Jillian Blackbeard said in an earlier media briefing that the airshow would be commemorating those who had contributed to aviation in Botswana over the years.

She added that the displays would showcase the aviation history and bring aviation to the youth through edutainment.

“We live with aviation every day and yet some feel it is beyond their reach. This air show is about making aviation accessible to everyone,” Blackbeard said.

Despite the scorching heat on the day, show goers were not deterred as they watched and enjoyed the different activities that took place.

The highlight of the event was when President Lt  Gen. Dr Seretse Khama Ian Khama took school kids who were playing marimba on a helicopter ride and were chuffed that the first citizen piloted them.

Skydivers also did a formation of 50years and it was a marvel to watch in the blue skies of Botswana.

Another activity that seemed to strike a chord with people was the hall of fame that told the story of aviation through the years.

Static aircrafts were also on display which gave people the chance to be up and close with them and also some had the chance to board some of the static aircrafts.

The world’s top aerobatic displays were also on point with both individual and formation displays that dazzled spectators.

High speed jets, amazing stunts, including aeroplanes and motorbikes combined, as well as the crazy roof top landing on a moving vehicle ending with the classic Harvard Formation fly-by had the crowd on edge and it showed how far Botswana has come when it comes to hosting top notch events.

Blackbeard had earlier also said the airshow would be the biggest in Southern Africa with Botswana Defence Force playing a crucial role in the event. ENDS