On 26 November 24  pilots, flight engineers, loadmasters and aerial photographers were awarded their brevets and half brevets at AFB Langebaan. The awarding of these individuals’ wings is the result of a training programme that began in early 2014. For many, particularly the pilots, this ceremony represents just the start of their training in the air force.

The SAAF Pilatus PC-7 MkII trainer. Cadet pilots must first cut their teeth on this aircraft before graduating onto the rest of the air force's inventory, ranging from C130 haulers to Gripen fighter jets. ADR/JOHN STUPART

The SAAF Pilatus PC-7 MkII trainer. Cadet pilots must first cut their teeth on this aircraft before graduating onto the rest of the air force’s inventory, ranging from C130 haulers to Gripen fighter jets. ADR/JOHN STUPART

One of five pilots awarded their wings after completing flight school in the Pilatus PC-7 MkII trainer. ADR/JOHN STUPART

One of five pilots awarded their wings after completing flight school in the Pilatus PC-7 MkII trainer. ADR/JOHN STUPART

 

It's not all just pilots. A corporal receives her flight engineer wings. ADR/JOHN STUPART

It’s not all just pilots. A corporal receives her flight engineer wings. ADR/JOHN STUPART

 

Saluting the CSAAF. ADR/JOHN STUPART

Saluting the CSAAF. ADR/JOHN STUPART

 

SAAF March past the CSAAF's podium. ADR/JOHN STUPART

SAAF March past the CSAAF’s podium. ADR/JOHN STUPART

 

Chief of SA Army Lt Gen Masondo. ADR/JOHN STUPART

Chief of SA Army Lt Gen Masondo. ADR/JOHN STUPART

 

SAAF Pilatus PC-7 MkII trainers performing a flypast at the beginning of the parade.

SAAF Pilatus PC-7 MkII trainers performing a flypast at the beginning of the parade.

 

The trophies on hand for the class' best students. ADR/JOHN STUPART

The trophies on hand for the class’ best students. ADR/JOHN STUPART