Ruth Haines
Johannesburg's first international airport, Rand Airport, is steeped in history. Built in the 1920s, the airport was once South Africa's primary international airport. Today, it is a busy hub for private and commercial ventures, offering a range of aviation-related activities. Visitors can explore the airport's rich past, which includes its use by the South African Air Force during World War II, and its many accidents, often caused by the airport's high altitude and short runways. The airport also houses the SAA Museum, a treasure trove of South African Airways memorabilia, and the Transvaal Aviation Club, a heritage site that was once a popular gathering place for aviators and visitors.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Germiston, South Africa |
| Year of Construction | 1920s |
| Year of Inauguration | 1931 |
| Former Use | Johannesburg's first international airport |
| Current Use | Private and commercial venture facilities |
| Notable Features | Short runways, high altitude, hot conditions, extensive firefighting facilities, SAA Museum |
| Activities | Flying lessons, skydives, and other flying experiences |
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What You'll Learn
Explore the airport's rich history
Johannesburg's first international airport, Rand Airport, has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. The airport was constructed in the 1920s as Johannesburg's main airport. However, the city outgrew it, and it was replaced by Palmietfontein Airport in 1948, which could accommodate larger aircraft. The site for the airport was chosen due to its proximity to Johannesburg, its well-drained land, and its location near Victoria Lake. The development of the airport was a joint venture between the Germiston Town Council, the Elandsfontein Estate Company, and the Rand Refinery.
During its early years, Rand Airport played a significant role in the growth of aviation in South Africa. In 1931, the airport received its first flight from Imperial Airways, originating from London. Four years later, in 1935, South African Airways (SAA) relocated its headquarters and maintenance division to the airport, further establishing it as a key aviation hub. The airport also served as a base for the South African Air Force during World War II, with the construction of hangars and a bomb dump.
Despite losing its international status in 1999, Rand Airport remains a busy aviation hub, providing facilities for private and commercial ventures. The primary terminal building has been declared a National Heritage Site, preserving its historical significance. The airport is also home to the SAA Museum, which houses a collection of South African Airways memorabilia, including aircraft models and classic planes.
The airport has witnessed several notable incidents throughout its history, including crashes and accidents. Unfortunately, some of these incidents have resulted in fatalities, such as the 1995 crash of an Antonov An-2 cargo flight and the 1999 crash of a Piper PA-31-350, which claimed the lives of those on board. Despite these tragic events, Rand Airport continues to operate and is a testament to the evolution of aviation in South Africa.
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Visit the SAA Museum
If you're interested in aviation history, the SAA Museum at Rand Airport is a must-visit. The South African Airways Museum Society, located at Dakota Crescent in the Airport Business Park, is a non-profit organisation dedicated to preserving the history of civil aviation in South Africa.
The museum boasts an impressive collection of aircraft and aviation artefacts, including static historic aircraft such as three Boeings: a B747-200, B747SP, and B737-200. But that's not all; the museum also houses two Douglas DC-4 Skymasters, a Douglas DC-3 Dakota, and the iconic Junkers Ju 52/3m. These static display aircraft are used for aviation awareness programmes, fundraising events, and are even available for corporate functions and weddings.
The SAA Museum also has a library that will delight aviation enthusiasts, with over a thousand aviation-related books to browse through. And if you're looking for a unique experience, you can book a tour of the 747 with experienced cabin crew members as your guide. They will take you underneath the majestic 747, where you can marvel at the intricate details of this engineering marvel.
The museum is easily accessible, located in Germiston, just outside of Johannesburg, South Africa. It is open to the public, and all proceeds from admissions go towards the upkeep of the museum. So, whether you're an aviation enthusiast or simply looking for a unique day trip, a visit to the SAA Museum at Rand Airport is sure to be an engaging and memorable experience.
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Book a flying lesson
Rand Airport, located in Germiston, South Africa, is a great place to book a flying lesson. With its proximity to the General Flying Area and other major airports, students get more flying time per lesson, making training more efficient. The airport also offers four different runway directions to accommodate any wind conditions and access to navigational facilities.
One option for booking a flying lesson at Rand Airport is through the Johannesburg School of Flying, one of the oldest flight training academies in South Africa and the biggest in Gauteng. The school has been training World Class pilots since 1981 and has over 3,500 graduates. They offer a range of training courses, including the Private Pilot License, Night Rating, Commercial Pilot License, and Instrument Rating. The school's dedicated full-time flight instructors provide step-by-step support and guidance throughout the training process, ensuring a safe and high-quality learning experience.
Another option is Sun Quest Aviation, a flight training school located in Johannesburg. Sun Quest Aviation offers intensive programs that allow students to obtain the necessary flying hours in a shorter period. Their modern fleet, simulators, and experienced flight instructors provide a comprehensive learning experience. Sun Quest Aviation is approved by the South African Civil Aviation Authority, ensuring a high standard of training. Students can work towards certifications such as the Private Pilot's License, Commercial Pilot's License, and Instrument Rating.
Additionally, the Central Flying Academy, one of the largest flying schools in Southern Africa, offers pilot training courses covering the requirements for Private (PPL), Commercial (CPL), and Airline Transport (ATPL) Pilot Licenses. Their programs are designed to help students achieve their dream of becoming a pilot, providing the necessary knowledge and skills to master the art and science of flight.
Booking a flying lesson at Rand Airport provides a unique opportunity to learn in a historic and dynamic aviation environment, with the support of experienced instructors from reputable flight training academies.
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Try skydiving
Rand Airport is an airport in Germiston, South Africa, constructed in the 1920s as the main airport for Johannesburg. It is notorious for its hot and high conditions and relatively short runways. If you're an adventure-seeker visiting Rand Airport, you can try skydiving!
Skydiving is an exhilarating activity that gives you an adrenaline rush like no other. If you're new to skydiving, you can choose between a tandem or solo skydive for your first jump. A tandem skydive is a great option if you want to ease into the experience, as you'll be harnessed to an experienced instructor during freefall and landing. On the other hand, if you're feeling daring, you can opt for a solo skydive, where you'll undergo practical training and be guided by instructors during your jump.
At iSkydive DC, located near Washington DC, you can experience breathtaking views of the city, the Shenandoah Valley, and the Blue Ridge Mountains during your skydive. The staff at iSkydive DC are known for their professionalism and friendliness, ensuring that you have a safe and enjoyable experience. They also offer video and photo packages so you can capture and relive your skydive forever.
Before you take the leap, it's important to consider your comfort level and physical condition. Skydiving can be physically demanding, and it's essential to ensure that you meet the weight requirements set by the skydiving center. Additionally, if you have any medical conditions or concerns, it's advisable to consult with the staff beforehand to ensure your safety.
Whether you choose to skydive solo or with an instructor, the experience of soaring through the sky and taking in the bird's-eye view of the world below is sure to be unforgettable. So, if you're seeking a thrill and a challenge, consider skydiving at Rand Airport!
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View the Harvards in the hangars
Rand Airport, Johannesburg's first international airport, is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of travel and aviation in South Africa. The airport, constructed in the 1920s, played a vital role as a service base for the South African Air Force during World War II.
One of the key attractions at Rand Airport is the opportunity to view the Harvards in the hangars. These Harvards, maintained and serviced during World War II, remain in the hangars built during that era. They are now privately owned and used for aerial displays, adding a dynamic element to the historical aircraft on display.
To get a closer look at these impressive machines, visitors can head to the hangars, which are located within the airport premises. The hangars themselves are a testament to the airport's rich history, having been constructed during World War II to accommodate the South African Air Force's needs. The Harvards within are a reminder of a bygone era of aviation, showcasing the airport's former glory as a bustling service base for military aircraft.
While visiting the hangars, take the time to admire the Harvards' sleek designs and imagine the buzz of activity that once filled these spaces. Picture the dedicated servicemen and women hard at work, ensuring these aircraft were in top condition for their missions. The Harvards on display serve as a reminder of the airport's contribution to South Africa's aviation history and its role in shaping the country's aerial landscape.
Additionally, visitors can enhance their experience by dining at the Harvard Cafe, located within the airport. This cafe offers more than just dining; it provides a captivating ambiance that blends the thrill of aviation with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. The vast patio offers sweeping views of the runway, creating a unique dining experience with a front-row seat to the exciting world of takeoffs and landings. The cafe's atmosphere, coupled with the sight of the Harvards in the hangars, makes for an unforgettable visit to Rand Airport.
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Frequently asked questions
Rand Airport, Johannesburg's first international airport, has a rich history that visitors can explore. The primary terminal building has been declared a National Heritage Site, and the airport is home to the SAA Museum, which houses a collection of South African Airways memorabilia, including photos, aircraft scale models, and static displays of classic aircraft.
There are many outdoor activities available near Rand Airport, including flying lessons, skydives, and other flying experiences.
Rand Airport was constructed in the 1920s as the main airport for Johannesburg. It officially opened in 1931, with the first flight arriving from London operated by Imperial Airways. The airport served as South Africa's primary international airport until 1948 when it was replaced by Palmietfontein Airport due to the need for longer runways to accommodate larger aircraft. During World War II, the South African Air Force used Rand Airport as a base for servicing and maintaining their aircraft, and it is known for its hot and high conditions and relatively short runways.
Yes, Rand Airport is still a busy airport providing private and commercial venture facilities, despite losing its international status in 1999.
