Durban’s North beach is set to be transformed, as the inaugural Durban Land, Sea and Air Festival takes place over the long weekend in March, a festive way to celebrate national pride on Human Rights Day.
Story by Justin Scott
The event, which includes the Sky Grand Prix of Aerobatics with 5 of the world’s top aerobatics pilots and SA’s top 10, is a first of its kind and Durban City along with the organisers have pulled out all the stops to make it a show to remember.
In between the aerobatic competition, the event organisers will keep the public entertained with an impressive line-up of display aircraft that will put on their own airshow. The displays will also include SA Air Force planes and pilots and large Boeings doing a fly past for the crowds.
“It’s exciting to be putting on a festival like this for the public, especially as it is free for all to attend. The acts are some of the best in the world and including the Sky GP of aerobatics, which is internationally endorsed, really means we’re putting on a world class event – unbelievably without charging to watch,” said event organiser Brian Emmenis.
“The Durban Land, Sea and Air Festival will also include the SA Navy and SA Air Force which is a major scoop for an event like this and means both young and old will be able to see displays from our very own armed forces. Talk about national pride on display” Emmenis adds.
Durban beach is the ideal location for the event, which will see planes racing past pylons erected on the piers as they chase the clock while executing precision aerobatic routines. With long golden beaches and a world class promenade, Durban residents and visitors will be able to catch the action from anywhere between Bay Gardens and Bantry Bay. Even spectators as far as Suncoast and Ushaka will be able to see and be part of the aviation action that will turn the beach front into a festive, entertaining destination over the long weekend.
The event has partnered with Tsogo Sun and will offer those visiting from across the country special event rates which will allow them to bring family and friends to Durban to experience a first of a kind event for South Africa.
Please note that North and Dairy beaches will be closed from 21 to 23 March to swimming, surfing and access to the sea.
More information can be found at www.landseaairfestival.co.za or on the event’s Facebook page.