Contact
The Airplane Factory
Last Message sent
2013/6/15
2013/6/15
Business Hours:
8am-5pm (Mon-Fri)
8am-5pm (Mon-Fri)
Contact Our Head Office
Via E-Mail or Phone
We love hearing from our customers and value your questions and feedback. Please contact The Airplane Factory by using the details below. Be sure to check out our Distributors page too should you not be from South Africa, as we do have distributors located in various countries.
Telephone:
+27 (0)11 948 9898Fax:
086 518 11 01 (RSA Only)E-mail:
az[dot]oc.yrotcafenalpria[at]selasaz.oc[dot]yrotcafenalpria[at]stnuocca
If you need to post us anything, our postal address is:
PO Box 308
Eikenhof
Germiston
South Africa
1872
Team Members
Contact Details
The following team members can also be contacted by using the listed contact details.
Mike Blyth
Development, Marketing and Operations
0835501163az[dot]oc.yrotcafenalpria[at]ekim
James Pitman
Corporate
0835435589az[dot]oc.yrotcafenalpria[at]semaj
Jean d'Assonville
Production
0717471065az[dot]oc.yrotcafenalpria[at]naej
Gareth Bosch
Production
0724198680az[dot]oc.yrotcafenalpria[at]hterag
Terry Musiker
Aeronautical Engineering
0725178900az[dot]oc.yrotcafenalpria[at]yrret
Andrew Pitman
Finance and Marketing
0764987391az[dot]oc.yrotcafenalpria[at]werdna
Business Hours:
8am-5pm (Mon-Fri)
8am-5pm (Mon-Fri)
Visit
Our Factory
Below is the map to The Airplane Factory Head Office & Factory in Johannesburg, South Africa. Should you wish to visit any of our dealers, please visit the Distributors page for any address and website details.
Physical Address:
GPS Coordinates:
S26°21'06"
E27°58'09"
23 Nettleton Road,
Eikenhof,
Tedderfield Airpark
Agricultural Holding
Johannesburg South
South Africa
GPS Coordinates:
S26°21'06"
E27°58'09"
Printable Map
Click on the button to the right in order to view a printable map for your convenience
Send A Short
Online Message
You can send us a short message via our online message system. We will answer any questions as soon as possible, so please check back regularly if you posted a question. If you want us to email you information please contact us via email rather (az[dot]oc.yrotcafenalpria[at]selas) to ensure we have the correct address to attend to your query.
Click on the carrier pigeon to send a message to The Airplane Factory
Neville van der Merwe - 2013/6/15 8:39:00 AM
Is there a DVD available on the 2011 JULY–AUGUST Sling 4 Around The World trip.
Anton Venter - 2013/5/21 3:20:00 PM
How you guys doing with your six seater?
Gerhard - 2013/4/3 3:52:38 PM
How many Sling 4 planes are already flying?
Graham Preston - 2013/4/2 1:40:27 PM
Please contact me urgently 082 457 5613 0r 011316 2620 I have a customer for you who want to visit you on Thursday
Graham preston
Denis - 2013/2/21 11:20:22 PM
Hello,
the February 2013 issue of the German magazine Aerokurier presents a report on the Sling 2. I could not read it yet but the title means "Sling 2, the LSA Allrounder". Can you get a copy and put it online? Best Regards
Yuvraj - 2013/2/4 10:54:39 AM
Are youll going to be present at Aero India 2013 ?
Gregor Rademeyer - 2013/1/28 4:08:12 PM
Hi there, I work for a glassfibre weaving and impoting company, Saertex in Paarl RSA (please see our web page Saertex.com. As you will see we are world leaders in Glass & Carbonfibre products. I will be in Gauteng next week and would like to visit you. Pleaqse reply to set an appointment.Kind regards Gregor
Andrew From The Airplane Factory - 2013/1/23 10:43:57 AM
Hi Josh, yes we have designed a tail dragger. We are building the first one now. It should be flying by the end of February. Check out our FaceBook page for images.
Josh Cleal - 2013/1/13 9:19:45 AM
Hi guys, awesome little plane you have there. I was wondering if there were plans to produce the Sling 2 as a tail dragger? Market research shows that 60% of sport pilots in America prefer a tail dragging arrangement such as an RV7. I prefer your plane over all others on the market but a tail dragging option would be cream on top for me. All the best.
John Graham - 2013/1/1 2:23:20 PM
Does the Sling 2 come with a standard transponder and nav lights or is it extra as per brochure?Cruise speed at FL120-140 with turbo Rotax? Regards John
Scott Raynal - 2012/12/3 4:51:42 AM
Enjoyed the You Tube channel showing how the canopy is built up. Any plans to do additional videos with a part of the airframe - the tail section for example?
Andrew From The Airplane Factory - 2012/11/29 7:26:01 AM
Hi Dean, we dont have a distributor in Namibia
Andrew From The Airplane Factory - 2012/11/29 7:24:55 AM
Hi Peter, no he is not selling us props
Dean Umar - 2012/11/28 6:43:28 PM
Please kindly send me a list of your products distributors in Namibia
Peter from Bolly Propellers - 2012/11/12 12:03:49 PM
Hi Guys Nice aircraft. I have been contacted by a Mr Mike Seko who claimes he is working as an agent for you to purchase 1,500 propellers from us. can you verify this.Thanks
Mike Cole - 2012/10/22 7:24:12 PM
Liking the look of these planes! Any signs of a dealership in the UK?
Victor Mukungunugwa - 2012/10/8 12:44:43 PM
I am a graduate Aerospace engineer and I specialized in designing of air crafts and Rocket engineering and there systems,I want to know if you have any vacancies for designers?
Paul Berridge - 2012/8/23 4:17:10 PM
Howzit!! I am currently learning to fly and the other day i was lucky enough to go for a flip in a sling.I was amazed at how smooth it is compared to the Foxbat i am currently training in.I am busy completing my NPL course and hoping to become an intern st your factory during the end of year holidays. These Slings are such amazing planes !!
Eddy Berridge - 2012/8/22 7:35:46 AM
My son Paul is in Gr.11 at St.Charles in Pmb.He has almost completed his SPL with Light Flight in Cato Ridge & recently flew in a Sling 2.Is there a possibility he could spend some time at your factory for a Job Shadowing experience ?
Regards.
Eddy
cell 0722444203
e-mail eds@sai.co.za
Zakhele Mlambo - 2012/8/21 1:36:47 PM
Salute to The Airplane Factory
I am so inspired with your work. As a matter of fact, I wish to join the team. I am currenlty doing S3 in mechanical engineering and so hope I can be apart of you when I complete next semester. Do you anyhow offer practical learning? My email is zak501gm@gmail.com. Thank you.
Johnny Joubert - 2012/8/20 3:16:41 PM
Hi Guys if any of you or mike is flying i would love to fly with you guys on weekends. Please let me know, our company is busy buidling a hanger there and we bought one of the sling 4`s.
octovias mpho mankuru - 2012/7/2 01:32:59 PM
application for a job as fitter and machining,i have a certificate in that field i was looking for feather training and experience pls contact me 0833624915 or send me an email on octovias.mpho@gmail.com
Andrew From The Airplane Factory - 2012/6/12 12:09:18 PM
Hi Schalk, drop me an email on andrew@airplanefactory.co.za and I will send you a quote
SCHALK JACOBSZ - 2012/6/6 4:36:33 PM
Hi Mike, Please send me a pricelist of a reasdy to fly Sling and prices of all the options available to customise your own. Thanks.
Anton - 2012/5/22 08:55:23 PM
Are you aware of the new aircraft engine being developed by Duke Engines in New Zeeland? Lighter, smaller and more powerfull and runs on different fuels. I see they are looking for partners.
Andrew From The Airplane Factory - 2012/5/10 01:08:45 PM
@Hein the only engine used in a Sling 4 to date is a Rotax 914, partly because there is only one Sling 4 in the whole world.
Hein - 2012/5/9 9:17:38 AM
Do you know if any engine other than the Rotax have been used in the Sling 4?
Matevz Lenarcic - 2012/5/5 6:24:29 PM
Dear James, Mike, Jean
I am back home now. It was a long flight which was finally completed in Slovenia. I would like to thank you for all help at your factory and later in Namibia. Wishing you all the best with your plans and new adventures.
Matevz
Michel Vuilleumier - 2012/4/3 09:00:17 PM
Dear Mike and the Team at The Airplane Factory
RE: JOB SHADOW
I would like to thank you for the opportunity I had to spend the day at your company on the 26th March 2012.
I am really enthusiastic about aeroplanes and flying and it was an honour for me to shadow you and your team while you went about your day to day jobs.
The building of the aircraft opened my eyes to the fact that it’s not all about the glory of the sky, but that it starts on the ground. There is much to learn about the elements that go into the aircraft design and installation; there are many small and complex parts that have a big impact on the final product.
I am confident that the exposure I had to your industry will have much influence on me as I consider my future career options in the aviation industry.
I will continue to track your future progress and successes in this industry, and I look forward to visiting you again.
Sincerely
Michel Vuilleumier
Grade 9 Knights College
michel.flyboy@gmail.com
Dr. Gideon Meyer - 2012/3/23 9:52:54 AM
Hi there, I may want to have a look at one of your 4 seaters. Would it be possible for us to arrange something? Regards Gideon.
Frans Grotepass - 2012/3/22 09:03:36 PM
James thanks for a lovely flight. The Sling is such a beautifully balanced control piece of art. Mike congratulations on this masterpiece..
Frans
Anton - 2012/3/19 5:34:58 PM
Have you had a look at the new Duke engine for your new highwing 6-seater?
Derryn Pett - 2012/3/19 08:55:00 AM
Hi there
we keen to come check out how the build is going (order 071) on Friday the 30th March at around 4pm. is that a good time your side?
Andrew From The Airplane Factory - 2012/3/14 07:21:55 AM
@ Michael, no our next plan will be aq high wing fast 6 seater
michael davies - 2012/3/12 08:40:39 PM
hi,do you have in the pipeline a single seat more affordable a/c ie similar to a onex,hummelbird,teenie etc ?
Paul Eloff - 2012/3/8 07:48:21 PM
Would it be possible for me to have an introductory flight before 11:00 tomorrow ( Friday 9 March) 082 77 77 027
Andrew From The Airplane Factory - 2012/3/7 02:00:12 PM
@C.R.J. Pinto, the Sling 2 is certified +4G and -2G
Andrew From The Airplane Factory - 2012/3/7 01:56:25 PM
Hi Farhaad, we do offer parachutes on all of our planes as an optional extra.
Andrew From The Airplane Factory - 2012/3/7 01:55:29 PM
Hi Brett, no there is not a retract version of the Sling 4
farhaad - 2012/2/29 02:19:12 PM
have you ever thought of installing a parachute in your planes????
Brett - 2012/2/20 09:36:36 AM
Hi. Are there any plans for a retractable gear Sling 4? Thanks, Brett
C.R.J. Pinto - 2012/2/17 9:45:17 PM
How much G is this fine airplane certified for. You South Africans are really talented. Congrats to your design.
My son is a Sr. Flight Instructor told me about this aircraft.
Andrew From The Airplane Factory - 2012/2/15 11:46:20 AM
Hi Ross, thanks for the kind words. Its people like you that make us love what we do. Please come to our factory and let me show you around and take you for a flight. Cheers, Andrew
Ross - 2012/2/14 10:16:02 AM
I am too old to fly and too poor to buy. I would however like to congratulate you on a fine product. You make us proud to be South Africans and our success is assured. Please note that capacities should read Litres and not Liters which is actually Afrikaans. Good Luck.
Bryan Erasmus - 2012/1/31 11:07:33 AM
In East London do visit Wings Park .The grass strip 1000mtre good with good clubhouse and no landing fees. Accomm. available free for YOU! Your client Hennie Prinsloo flies from there and a number of Weekend Warriors. ph 0822006087
Kobus - 2012/1/28 2:37:22 PM
I would like to know what is the price of the Sling 2?
Brendan - 2012/1/27 02:08:21 PM
Hi Andrew I contacted you last week on connection on Pneumatic air tools....
083 951 7440
Andrew From The Airplane Factory - 2012/1/26 3:17:10 PM
For anyone looking for a job at The Airplane Factory please send a CV to sales@airplanefactory.co.za
Andrew From The Airplane Factory - 2012/1/26 02:55:55 PM
Hi Wayne, can you give me a call so I can put you in touch with Mark?
wayne gibbons - 2012/1/26 09:43:20 AM
I used to own a Sting TL2000 RG with Rotax 914. I was happy with the aircraft except for the clearance between top of my head and the canopy. I am considering a Sling with Rotax 912 100hp fixed u/c either factory built or in kit form. Please send me details on both options wayne@warriorgroup.co.za I am based in Cape Town
thanks
Johan Dreyer(kilroy@vodamail.co.za) - 2012/1/23 11:45:57 AM
Hi Mike,I wish to work in your factory,plse. i,ve no experience but wanted this my whole life.JD
Pam Barnard - 2012/1/18 2:26:27 PM
Good day I emailed my husbands CV for a spraypaiting position. Please advise if you received the CV and if have already fulled the position. A Barnard 0829365016
pepa - 2012/1/10 11:23:25 PM
how can i go i'm only 13 :)
pepa - 2012/1/10 11:22:55 PM
i wanna go in uganda :)
elvis - 2012/1/4 12:36:45 PM
well done !! Living in Germany and building an experimantel for the last 15 years I'm very impressed by your 5 days getting this beautiful flying machine up and going
Ahmed Khattab - 2011/12/25 3:45:52 AM
could i apply for a job
Ahmed Khattab - 2011/12/25 3:45:34 AM
Could i apply for a job a.khattab73@yahoo.com
Brett - 2011/12/4 4:41:50 AM
A quick question. I was wondering if you would consider using ULPower engines as an alternative to the Rotax?
Driessen - 2011/12/3 9:49:48 PM
I also could not attend the slide show , hope you have it on a disc so I can view it at home ! How much did the round trip cost at the end of the day ? I remember that James promised sometime halfway that Jean was adding it up and would tell us ?
sunrise4u - 2011/12/3 6:33:53 PM
Sorry that I missed out on last nights presentation/slide show. Once again well done guys on your incredible achievement. And yes, Jean, you are still my hero. x
Yolando de Buys - 2011/12/3 11:12:57 AM
To everyone who was involved in last nites presentation and slide show,thank you very much.a real experience meeting the crew and what a great feeling standing beside an aircraft that was put through its paces.well done and congratulations everyone.PS thx for the boerie rolls.
Anonymous - 2011/12/1 9:17:00 PM
Hi there.I had the privelage of meeting James at my locksmith shop last saturday and it was a honour.well done to all parties involved at what you have done and achieved with the Sling-Yolando de Buys
Andrew From The Airplane Factory - 2011/11/30 8:30:26 AM
Hi all, just a reminder. On the 2nd of December The Airplane Factory will be hosting a slideshow presentation and Q&A on our recent circumnavigation of the globe in our prototype Sling 4. Jean, Mike and James will be presenting the slideshow and talking you through the adventure. The show will start at 19h30 but please feel free to start arriving from 18h00 for snacks and soft drinks and a walk around the factory. Bring camp chairs and beers for a truly memorable evening at Tedderfield Airpark. Hope to see you all there!
joahn - 2011/11/19 9:23:17 AM
seee you on the 2nd
Peter Rowntree - 2011/11/19 7:04:36 AM
my contact 0836111328 Peter Rowntree
Peter Rowntree - 2011/11/19 7:04:04 AM
Im in Jhb for the weekend and would very much like test fly the Sling. Saturday would be preferable. regards, Peter Rowntree. (a past student of Jean's from light flight airfield)
chrissk - 2011/11/18 11:20:43 PM
See you on the 2nd
Andrew From The Airplane Factory - 2011/11/16 9:09:15 AM
Hi All On the 2nd of December The Airplane Factory will be hosting a slideshow presentation and Q&A on our recent circumnavigation of the globe in our prototype Sling 4. The fearless pilots, Jean, Mike and James will be making special appearances to talk you through the adventure. The show will start at 19h30 but please feel free to start arriving from 18h00 for snacks and soft drinks and a walk around the factory. Bring camp chairs and beers for a truly memorable evening at Tedderfield Airpark. Hope to see you all there!
André - 2011/11/8 10:14:32 PM
At last I'm going to be able to see the guys and the Sling! Saturday at Tempe............
Jakkals - 2011/11/7 8:26:37 AM
Following this thread? You joking or something, huh? I am working my arse off - weekly checking my bank account and then have look-see at Sling prices...... I am getting there....
Chrissk - 2011/11/5 12:44:35 AM
Hey Guys looking forward to seeing you again. Jean have you thought about our proposal for a book? Best Wishes to all at TAF
Derek Piva - 2011/11/3 4:14:47 AM
Im still following and would be really keen to have a chat with you guys about the trip to get some tip in my planned RTW....
Rob - 2011/11/1 7:53:46 PM
Still following the thread, You guys need to get back in your plane tho,start another adventure! I enjoyed every second of it. Rob
Stefan - 2011/10/28 7:40:28 AM
@Andrew , I check it occasionally for news of the information evening as discussed .
Andrew From The Airplane Factory - 2011/10/27 8:20:31 AM
Anyone still following this thread?
Jean d'Assonville - 2011/10/16 3:40:01 AM
Hey bud I am sure we have quiet a few on our server. I will endeavour to get them into your inbox. How was Baviaans? The last leg stories and more are in 'Sa flyer' and 'African Pilot' Depending on the reaction we cuold write a kinda E book on this site and really relive say another 47 day cicumnavigation. Could be all the things that happened that we have not captured while concentrating what seems the main and inportant events. A thought of mine is to take the photos of each leg inorder theywere taken and walk with words chosen in my mind as i was in those situations. Could be fun cause a lot of worthile sharing expereiences kept us in good spirits.The bottle has pride of place in the office, see it every day. Thanks for being you!X
Wineflyer - 2011/10/14 11:42:36 AM
Just visiting the site and I see some activity!Great writing Jean! Can anyone at the Airplanefactory please tell me where I can find photos taken on the arrival day at Tedderfield! When I was there I noticed a few photographers, and I want a fewpics of us all having wine from that infamous 5 liter bottle I prepared while celebrating next to TAF !!!!! Please let me know, thanks guys!
Tess - 2011/10/14 11:41:50 AM
Mike ... HUGE congrats! Who would have thought that your 1st foray into cross-country flying 25 years ago with microlights into the Okavango would lead to this! Flippin' amazing!
Andrew From The Airplane Factory - 2011/10/14 7:53:38 AM
but develpment on a 5 or 6 seater will start next year some time. There will be plenty of adventures in Sling 2s and 4s before we set off somewhere in the 6 seater
Andrew From The Airplane Factory - 2011/10/14 7:52:38 AM
@wings on. Its going to be a bunch of years before we are flying our electric 600 seater to mars.
wings on - 2011/10/13 11:03:40 AM
how far to completing the five seater waiting for next venture cant wait
wings on - 2011/10/13 11:01:54 AM
so when is the next venture how long before the five seaters complete cant wait
Guy - SA Flyer - 2011/10/10 2:41:36 PM
Andr - 2011/10/6 6:51:42 PM If I understand correctly, the story of the final legs etc has been sold to an Aviation Magazine, which means that we are not going to get the opportunity to read it. I sincerely hope that I am wrong Hi Andre SA Flyer has paertnhere4d with TAF on their wonderful exploits. We will publish it as part 3 of our series on this RTW flight - If you cant get the magazine you can read the artilce on our website or i will email you a pdf.
Tony in CA - 2011/10/8 5:28:54 AM
Jean, you're not only now a legendary aviator but one of the best aviation writers it's been my pleasure to read. However the story gets finally published just let us all know and we'll be there to ride along with you once again.
Minnie Mouse - 2011/10/8 12:00:30 AM
How blessed are we to have shared in this unbelievable adventure with you very special fly boys. thank you for taking me by the hand and magiaclly transporting me in your wake. I love you all so much. x x
Jean d'Assonville - 2011/10/7 11:54:32 PM
“Life is simple; eat, sleep and fly” And that is how it was as we chased a new destination each new day across a seemly endless eastern horizon with sun, moon and stars rising continuously. After a long dark night in the middle of the Atlantic we slowly eased our way home, the sun finally lit the horizon that would reveal the iconic Table Mountain which for me brought both happiness and sadness. Happiness because I had made it home, sadness because the end of my perfect existence and lived illusion was in sight. I thank each and every one of you who joined us on this wild unreal adventure. The moment I awoke, the day after we stopped outside the hanger where this adventure had begun, my heart missed a beat realizing that the vitalizing activity to which my soul had been accustomed was now to be replaced by the reality of having to build upon the foundation which enabled us to live this unbelievable adventure. Time has passed so swiftly and the reality of the perspiration required for the inspiration absorbed us so intensely that time passed and I find myself tonight wishing that I would rather be writing about another flight on which you had joined us through the night. But alas, we live days of toil which are in themselves an adventure of the human spirit, building brick by brick, a tower through the clouds into the realm of unlimited vision of possibility, and it is there that I wish that we will all meet again.
Stefan - 2011/10/7 7:45:24 AM
Steven Spielberg bought the movie rights !
André - 2011/10/6 6:51:42 PM
If I understand correctly, the story of the final legs etc has been sold to an Aviation Magazine, which means that we are not going to get the opportunity to read it. I sincerely hope that I am wrong
BlueHawk - 2011/10/6 4:18:00 PM
Nice Article on Wikipedia on the Sling 4 - Most Notable Cross Atlantic Flights of the 21st Century. Nicely Done!
Driessen - 2011/10/6 11:35:44 AM
S A Flyer published the Sling 2 earth circumnavigation , October 2009 . Is the Sling 4 story also going to be published in a magazine ?
russell t - 2011/10/5 4:30:20 PM
Well done guys. sorry i was not in jhb to welcome you . was in mauritius but got the sms. Still looking forward to a flip.
sunrise4u - 2011/10/3 7:16:32 PM
What a honour to celebrate with you Jean, James & Mike when you arrived in Tedderfield. Awesome party & just so cool to have a signed T-shirt. Jean you are my hero, love you forever. X
ijacobs3 - 2011/10/3 1:13:13 PM
saw the sling at the waterkloof airshow, what a machine, now, to win that lotto :D
Driessen - 2011/10/2 3:02:34 PM
All the way round we followed like children joining the excitement ! Please share with us the Rio to Capetown leg . Regards .
Frustrated .. - 2011/9/30 4:26:21 PM
So where's the writeup of the crossing - surely the boys have rested sufficiently by now? The show's not over till the paperwork is done! We want all the detail - you can't short-change us now ...!
Andrew From The Airplane Factory - 2011/9/30 8:41:46 AM
@BlueHawk Q&A still needs to be set up so probably in a month or so. re the difference between prototype and production Sling 4 the fuel tanks will be 175 liters instead of 630, there will be no onboard urinal, otherwise changes will be just cosmetic
Bluehawk - 2011/9/30 7:39:01 AM
Looking forwar to seeing you at Waterkloof. I will def be there. When can we expect that Q&A? Another one to add to your list, how many orders have you recieved for the Sling 4 and to echo a previous post, what differences will there be between the Sling ATW and production Sling?
C A N E C O - 2011/9/29 7:49:30 PM
hi..good evening.not possible for me to go to waterkloof..i am at work
Stefan - 2011/9/29 6:27:31 PM
@ Andrew ; In PE at the moment , Will make it to WK on Saturday !
Andrew From The Airplane Factory - 2011/9/29 11:33:15 AM
Hey all. The "SIlver Bullet" Sling 4 will be making an appearance at the Waterkloof Airshow on Saturday so all please try to get there!
tangonovember - 2011/9/29 9:32:02 AM
Fantastic adventure and very well done. Also, excellent website. Made such a difference for us sat in our offices at zero feet! TN
Starship - 2011/9/29 8:45:21 AM
I have a question: Will the production Sling 4 differ in any way to the prototype? If so what will be different?
Stefan - 2011/9/29 7:31:36 AM
Hi Caneco , nothing moving , We must send them off again !!
C A N E C O - 2011/9/29 7:17:05 AM
good morning ..hi everybody
savas - 2011/9/28 9:35:14 PM
guys you had a long enuff rest, now we need one of those talks, soon about your trip
C A N E CO - 2011/9/28 7:11:54 PM
good evening to all..
Hi Caneco, checking to see if the aircraft is moving? I think a lot of us are having withdrawal symptoms.
oomgeorge - 2011/9/28 11:33:59 AM
Mike, james and jean, we admire your guts ,tenacity, endurance,determination,you are trailblazers,adventurerers, we have nothing but admiration for you. Hope the orders pour in when will we see more power up front
MC - 2011/9/28 11:29:11 AM
Welcome guys, so much looking forward to your story about crossing the Atlantic....
Bluehawk - 2011/9/28 10:00:44 AM
Looking forward to the Q&A post. Will we be seeing you at the Waterkloof air show?
Bluehawk - 2011/9/28 10:00:38 AM
Looking forward to the Q&A post. Will we be seeing you at the Waterkloof air show?
C A N E C O - 2011/9/28 7:04:19 AM
HI..LETS KEEP THIS PAGE OPEN ,,ITS GOOD FORUM TO MAINTAIN THE SLING FAMILY TOGETHER,REGARDS TO ALL
C A N E C O - 2011/9/28 7:03:24 AM
hi..good morning .
SCRAMJet - 2011/9/28 12:35:54 AM
You guys made all of us South African aero enthusiasts proud!
C A N E C O - 2011/9/27 7:14:15 PM
good evening to all..
Glenn - 2011/9/26 8:38:18 PM
Congratulations guys! I guess that means your airy is airworthy :) Good luck with sales. I hope we see you at Oshkosh next year.
C A N E C O - 2011/9/26 7:24:18 PM
good evening to all
Antony - 2011/9/26 7:14:14 PM
Congratulations to Mike, James and Jean! What an achievement; awesome! Inspiring. Jealous. We followed you from start to finish from Aix en Provence, France. Mike: The good old bapsfontein days '90s? Antony and Udo PS looking forward to the next adventure..
EN - 2011/9/26 6:31:26 PM
Any possibility of you guys printing a few of those "Sling Around the World 2011" t-shirts and put it up for sale?
Dupie - 2011/9/26 5:50:27 PM
Very well done guys
Andrew From The Airplane Factory - 2011/9/26 4:59:09 PM
@ mr G yep all three flew. james and jean to LA and then Jean and Mike home
ThomasC - 2011/9/26 3:59:32 PM
Excellent job! And it is really great to see you sharing the adventure and dream with the rest of us.
TG - 2011/9/26 2:02:12 PM
I'm bored now! Missing the regular updates and interesting pictures. When do you leave again? Was great to be at Tedderfield on Saturday. Wishing you all the best in your business and flying ventures.
Mr G - 2011/9/26 1:15:09 PM
Who flew the Sling on this amazing adventure...did all 3 pilots participate?
AmandaP - 2011/9/26 9:01:41 AM
Glad to see you are all back home safe and sound. Very very well done!
Naughtyboy - 2011/9/26 8:45:42 AM
Well done guys
Thank you Naughtyboy
belgianpie - 2011/9/26 8:38:08 AM
Hey, we want to see more images of beer, wine, braai and drunk people!
Hi belgianpie, will ask the guys for photos today. In the meantime check our Latest News page for a link to Avcom where there are some photos already
Chrissk - 2011/9/25 10:47:53 PM
ThankYou for a great day yesterday. You guys are so down to earth and wonderful ambassadors. Good luck.
Dobbs - 2011/9/25 8:43:58 PM
Thanks for taking us along on your wonderful journey, and glad that you guys are back safe and sound. A question re oil consumption - my experience with the 914 is that if it is pushed hard, 5400 - 5500 rpm, the oil consumption is about half a pint for every 100L. Did you guys have to install additional oil capacity, or did you not run the engine that hard?
friskris - 2011/9/25 6:49:29 PM
Thank you for the party yesterday. I agree with the sentiment to keep the page open. Is the Sling 4 going to be displayed at the airshow at Waterkloof this coming week? After what you have achieved, the SAAF should PAY YOU to have the aircraft there!!
BlueHawk - 2011/9/25 6:02:01 PM
Some Questions for your Q&A How much fuel did you have on board when you departed Rio, how much left when you landed in CT? What did this trip cost you in Rands? I need to start saving for the latest addition to my bucket list. What was the best, and scariest moment on the trip. When is the Sling 6 ready? Can I be a passenger on the back seat?
Jim@Torrance - 2011/9/25 4:54:48 PM
Sorry I missed the party--my Lancair has a maximum range of ONLY 1000 mi.
Wineflyer - 2011/9/25 3:38:01 PM
Thanks to the AIRPLANEFACTORY for the outstanding party last night! Great spit braai and the lamb was delicious! Jean, you and Mike and James are such humble gents, yet incredible aviators! I salute your achievements and we're filled with pride to be part of your passions and dreams! We all know the SLING will an abundance of successes to come! GO BOYS GO!!!!!!
Paul M - 2011/9/25 2:29:28 PM
Awesome. Bummed I am not there for the celebratory jol! Congrats, manne!!!
C A N E C O - 2011/9/25 2:23:02 PM
HI..LETS KEEP THIS PAGE OPEN ,,ITS GOOD FORUM TO MAINTAIN THE SLING FAMILY TOGETHER,REGARDS TO ALL
Harry Sharp, Birmingham UK - 2011/9/25 12:55:37 PM
Well done chaps, another great achievement by you and your team. I think Vicki is looking forward to a good night of sleep at last!
INSTRUCTOR VEIGA-MARICÁ-RIO DE JANEIRO-BRAZIL - 2011/9/25 2:04:40 AM
WE WERE VERY HAPPY TO KNOW THAT YOU CONCLUDED THAT FANTASTIC TRIP. PEOPLE LIKE YOU THAT ARE OF A GOOD EXAMPLE OF DETERMINATION FOR YOUNG PILOT`S. FLYING SCHOOL MARIC-RIO DE JANEIRO
Sydney ATC (live from London) - 2011/9/25 1:31:25 AM
Well done guys – so sorry I have been unable to follow the final weeks – in lock down conference mode in London with no FB or net access. Great to know that you are safe on SA soil – rest (and party) well!
Tony in CA - 2011/9/24 11:24:13 PM
Outstanding job by the whole team. Thanks for taking us along for the ride.
WaYnE - 2011/9/24 10:24:26 PM
Top job done by top blokes. Hats high to you! Glad to see y'all home.
Brett Hickman - 2011/9/24 10:18:48 PM
Thanks for the beers and well done once again. Go and get some well earned rest, Mike says he's back in the office on Monday!!!!
rio pilot - 2011/9/24 9:47:07 PM
How about crossing the Andes at 15K feet? I ve been to La Paz in 1973, flying my Navion. Max altitude flown: 16500 feet (I was 33 back then).
rgmwa - Perth, Australia - 2011/9/24 8:42:28 PM
Fantastic achievement guys. Time for a beer!
Nigel and Rosalie Dawes - 2011/9/24 7:05:21 PM
Congratulations. How wonderful to have the pioneering bravery to do what you have done. Well done.
C A N E C O - 2011/9/24 7:03:56 PM
THANKS FOR EVERYTHING GUYS..GOOD FOOD .GREAT DRINKS..WELCOME SILVER BULLET..AND THE CREW
Paul #25 - 2011/9/24 6:47:03 PM
Well done to all involved. Was great to finaly meet up with the "Crew". I will post some of the photos from today on Avcom.
Thanks Paul, looking forward to seeing it.
Neil G - 2011/9/24 6:40:56 PM
Well Done! The Right Brothers.
Neil G - 2011/9/24 6:40:13 PM
Just Brilliant to see Three Legends home again.Pity we could not stay for the party:-{
Annie - 2011/9/24 6:10:26 PM
fantastic news, well done and what a huge relief. love from ex pilot and fellow loving mother and friend of Vicki. xxx
RSS - 2011/9/24 4:35:07 PM
Congratulations and Welcome home !!. Thanks to the team and the privilege to experience the trip on-line with you.
colleen - 2011/9/24 4:32:40 PM
so now draw the line that ompletesn the circumnavigation. so great to have seen you in CT. loads of loves coming yur way. x
Doug17 - 2011/9/24 4:26:01 PM
Jean & Mike good to see you made it all G. Was great to meet up in Panama. Hope he SEF media get in on the act now and sales balloon.
UKDave - 2011/9/24 4:14:32 PM
Applause, applause, applause
UKDave - 2011/9/24 4:10:38 PM
Watching you guys on JustinTV. If there was ever a time when I wish I was somewhere else (ie Tedderfield), this is it!
Laurent - 2011/9/24 4:03:34 PM
J&J, in some minutes you'll be in the french TV. There is a broadcat "Carnets de vol" that will relate your stopover in Reunion Island. Do you remember the tall guy who was there every day ? He is the producer. He had descovered your trip at random when going back from a flight !
Hi Laurent, thanks again to all of you in Reunion that gave the guys such a warm welcome
HooMee - 2011/9/24 4:02:03 PM
A historical event. Thanks for the Justin TV feed. Enjoy the party.
Will do. Thanks again.
Laurent - 2011/9/24 4:01:40 PM
Congratulations. Many people are able to do it, but few of them would dare to do it.
Andrew Metcalf - 2011/9/24 3:48:01 PM
Huge congratulations to the brave crew, support team, and all the staff at the Airplane Factory. What a fantastic achievement! Well done to you all !
Thank you everyone for following and all your support. Check back over the next few days for updates and more photos, and send your questions through (if you have any about the trip) for the guys to do a Q&A post in a couple of days
Starship - 2011/9/24 3:47:23 PM
What an amazing adventure!
The Airplane Factory - 2011/9/24 3:37:36 PM
Touchdown! Safely back home again.
The Airplane Factory - 2011/9/24 3:34:40 PM
The guys are coming in to land now
Heystek - 2011/9/24 3:29:15 PM
7 formation, Beautiful!
The Airplane Factory - 2011/9/24 3:19:57 PM
Definitely. Please remember the website is about 7min behind with the tracker feed, so you can start watching from the next 10minutes.
Martyn - 2011/9/24 3:15:16 PM
Glad we can watch the arrival remotely :-)
Martyn - 2011/9/24 3:13:11 PM
Why did the weather turn out like this...its keeping me on the ground...
The Airplane Factory - 2011/9/24 3:10:31 PM
For those of you with unlimited/uncapped broadband, can you please go to www.airplanefactory.co.za/sling4atw2.asp to view the tracker plus the live broadcast
oupamike - 2011/9/24 3:09:27 PM
How many escorts?
Hi oupamike, the guys have not responded on my sms yet...so not sure of the qty
MC - 2011/9/24 3:08:54 PM
Link for webcam does not work on my side?
Burgert - 2011/9/24 3:08:45 PM
Once again to SILVER Bullet well done you kept our boys safe,and the CAPTAINS super job and all at APF.Have a grate party !!!
oupamike - 2011/9/24 3:02:00 PM
They are moving.
Hi oupamike, yes indeed...seems they are circling a bit too to give everyone time to get into the air. The final countdown now to arrival in Jhb
André - 2011/9/24 2:27:48 PM
Ok guys, I have to sign off now. This was an incredible experience for me. Once again well done to all involved, and I'm looking forward to meeting you all at some point in the future. Have a smashingly safe party!
Will do, thanks Andr
The Airplane Factory - 2011/9/24 2:24:32 PM
The guys have landed at Parys airfield to meet up with some pilots there. They will depart shortly for the rest of the leg to Johannesburg
Nick v N - 2011/9/24 1:45:05 PM
What does the weather at Tedderfield looks like? will they get in VFR?
Hi, just spoke to the office at Tedderfield, a little bit windy but not bad. VFR fly in.
Starship - 2011/9/24 1:33:16 PM
Oh - maybe not - seemed to be a long wait for the next blip
Hi guys, just picked up the chat page is not refreshing correctly. We did some trial runs with Justin.tv this morning and we have caused a bug somewhere...I'll quickly investigate.
Starship - 2011/9/24 1:28:58 PM
Tracker appears to have gone down again
Neil V - 2011/9/24 1:22:02 PM
What is the ETA at Tedderfield?
Hi Neil, at the moment it seems to be closer to 14h35 SA local
KONRAD - SOLARIS - 2011/9/24 1:21:38 PM
GO ZU-TAF, GO! Till the happy landing at home... :)
Chrissk - 2011/9/24 1:02:40 PM
Andrew are the gates open or must we call when we get there?
Hi Chrissk, with the people coming today I know they will have probably someone manning the gate. See Andrew is outside testing webcam at the moment.
Chrissk - 2011/9/24 1:00:23 PM
Bransons island Necker will bu just fine!!!!!!!
Oooh...we second that
nick v N - 2011/9/24 12:57:21 PM
And back down to 8000 ft, looks like they battling with a headwind and searching for better winds.
Guy - 2011/9/24 12:52:02 PM
Over 13000 ft! They are gonna be knackered for the party if they stay up there.
Guy - 2011/9/24 12:41:45 PM
Sometimes i think they switch the tracker off deliberately just to give us heart failure!
He he…we suspect strongly this was a normal shut-off. They don't know it yet..they will have to sponsor us all following for a holiday on a stress-free island somewhere :)
nick v N - 2011/9/24 12:32:22 PM
The tracker is back up and working...
The Airplane Factory - 2011/9/24 12:31:54 PM
Back online again
Driessen - 2011/9/24 12:31:27 PM
Congratulations on your achievement Mike , James and Jean as well as the entire team . It is admired ! wish you great success going forward .
Nick v N - 2011/9/24 12:10:22 PM
Thanks Sias. By the way an excellent job you have done. May you be blessed in all you do and prosper in your business ventures.
The Airplane Factory - 2011/9/24 12:09:39 PM
While we wait for feedback on the tracker, go to youtu.be/F_jq4AqWFuI so long to watch a video about yesterday by ShortFinal.tv
Sias - 2011/9/24 12:08:53 PM
Hereby the last couple of messages: 24 Sep 2011 09:13:58 ZU-TAF -> POWER DOWN - TOTAL MSGS: 35 | ZU-TAF -> THX | ZU-TAF <- CHRS SAFE LANDING | ZU-TAF <- JS PROB30 12/18Z 6000 -TSRA FEW030CB | ZU-TAF <- F105 BLW HWND DA32509 BL34015 KS36010
Sias - 2011/9/24 12:00:14 PM
@Nick v N - The tracker will first send a message that the unit is switched off and then shutdown
Nick v N - 2011/9/24 11:57:49 AM
Was it switched off or did they loose power to the tracker? Bad connection somewhere?
Sias - 2011/9/24 11:56:03 AM
We have a "power down" message from the tracker which indicated that it has been switched off.
Jamesey - 2011/9/24 11:55:22 AM
UKDave - 2011/9/24 11:04:23 AM - you missed one. Tryggve Gran. One of the overlooked feats in aviation. Been watching this adventure from work in Azerbaijan, Awesome!
Chris - 2011/9/24 11:37:02 AM
Starship, Mike, Jean and James are all flying together
Chris - 2011/9/24 11:35:17 AM
Factory - any news from James?
Not as yet Chris, we'll give them a few minutes. Have sent message to satellite phone too
Starship - 2011/9/24 11:34:06 AM
Who is doing this leg in ZU-TAF?
Chris - 2011/9/24 11:30:50 AM
Tracker U/S? Reading 0ft AMSL at 09:13:58 UTC but 125 knots?
Starship - 2011/9/24 11:29:09 AM
Should be abreast of Britstown by now
Nick v N - 2011/9/24 11:28:52 AM
Where is the leatherman? :-)
UKDave - 2011/9/24 11:26:41 AM
125kts but 0ft AMSL!
Starship - 2011/9/24 11:23:23 AM
Have we lost the tracker again? No updates since 09:13:58 UTC
ah no…let me check. Will sms James quickly.
Nick v N - 2011/9/24 11:22:48 AM
Looks like tracker has been lost. It is powering down?
UKDave - 2011/9/24 11:10:43 AM
@Sias. Ah, problemo! Well maybe a 'Donations' button on your web site :-)
Sias - 2011/9/24 11:05:07 AM
@UKDave - a raise, I wish! unfortunately I pay my own salary :-)
UKDave - 2011/9/24 11:04:23 AM
Wright, Bleriot, Lindbergh, Alcock and Brown, Johnson, Rutan, Jean, Mike, James
Sias - 2011/9/24 11:02:14 AM
@Tromp - Below 10,000ft are headwinds from the tracker position you will see TAF is climbing to take advantage of tailwinds, ETA is closer to 15:00 local SA
UKDave - 2011/9/24 10:56:06 AM
@Airplane Factory. Thanks. Cant wait...
Tromp - 2011/9/24 10:55:32 AM
ETA still 14:00?
Hi Tromp, they left 30min later but Andrew will be in contact with them soon and he'll update us on the ETA.
UKDave - 2011/9/24 10:54:52 AM
@Sias. Yes the flyguys did a fantastic job but you played a big part too. A good time to ask for a raise I think :-) Thannks also for keep the world informed of the goins-on.
UKDave - 2011/9/24 10:46:09 AM
Tell Andrew that his broadcast on Justin.tv this morning has made it to the UK. Will be watching later. Hope he enjoyed his toast:-)
LOL...will do UKDave. The links will be shown later live on the website as they get closer
Sias - 2011/9/24 10:37:18 AM
Morning everyone, wanted the weather - didn't think so :-) Cheers for now and well done to Mike, James, Jean and everyone at the AF!! it was great being part of this adventure - Safe Landings
Thanks for all your hard work Sias. Will send you a small video clip later from yesterday's speech in Stellenbosch
friskris - 2011/9/24 10:32:07 AM
Can you believe it,s raining in Pretoria. Might have to take some port or whiskey along for the coffee if the weather does not change.
Starship - 2011/9/24 10:25:54 AM
Just passing Fraserburg, Northern Cape now
Jemtuck - 2011/9/24 10:00:36 AM
You go you good thing!!!! What an amazing achievement, you guys deserve massive applause.
André - 2011/9/24 9:41:14 AM
Guys, by the time you get to the Central RSA in the Free State Republic, you are going to be in need of some coffee. I suggest you make a quick stop at FATP. Enjoy your homecoming guys, you make us proud!
Billy C Town - 2011/9/24 9:40:39 AM
I was great chatting to the fly boys yesterday at Stellenbosch, hope they will have a great joll later. Also to all at Airplane factory, it was a great adventure the entire trip and you all made it so easy to follow and share moments, GREAT TEAM.!!!! Just wonder what we all going to do in the time, maybe catch up some work. ENJOY !!!!
Well Heystek posted on our wall that he will soon be flying Cape Town to Chicago in a modified aircraft non-stop, so we better keep watch on Avcom for future news of that SA adventure
friskris - 2011/9/24 9:37:45 AM
How far behind them is Michiel?
Unfortunately we are not sure friskris
hedley - 2011/9/24 9:34:05 AM
the three musketeers - your feat has inspired me to close my business , complete the furio and follow my dreams - carpe diem - find time to go to schools and share your achievement as dreams are the birthplace of all good things in life
friskris - 2011/9/24 9:24:10 AM
Is there anyway i can view the messages from yesterday @10h00 Andrew?
Hi friskis, I'm adjusting the files to retrieve more older messages…give it about 15min
Neil G - 2011/9/24 9:23:51 AM
Yes, how about North pole South pole trip?
Well Jean said yesterday in Cape Town that he thinks the next adventure must be...over the South Pole...right around the globe...over North Pole and back to Johannesburg
oupamike - 2011/9/24 9:09:10 AM
@Andrew - I'm sure you will get a lot of support for your suggestion.
Andrew From The Airplane Factory - 2011/9/24 8:57:08 AM
Guys I am so excited to see them back but at the same time heart broken that this adventure is over. I am going to suggest that they let me run the factory and they just keep flying forever What say you?
Sausage - 2011/9/24 8:48:55 AM
They are airborne. According to GE. Andrew. Are they flying alone? Hope they track a little south over FAHA (Virginia) Safe flight guys on your last leg. Well done to all involved and especially to the 3 Manne. Have a blast this afternoon.
Hi Sausage, there are a few pilots hoping to meet up with them at Parys and then fly together with the guys to Johannesburg. The weather is not too great though today on this last leg. Michiel, in his Sling 2, is flying with the guys from Cape Town to Johannesburg.
Tony in CA - 2011/9/24 8:44:12 AM
Are M, J & J all in the bullet for the last leg?
Hi Tony...Yes, all three of them are flying together.
Andrew From The Airplane Factory - 2011/9/24 8:37:22 AM
Looks like they are up
Meet Up At
An Airshow / Fly-In
Be sure to check out our Calendar page for any airshows / fly-ins / events where The Airplane Factory will be attending, and possibly be displaying one of the Sling aircraft models. Our staff will always be there to answer any questions and show you our beautiful Sling models.
Follow TAF: