The second annual "African Bush Pilots Fly-In" was held at the Barberton Airfield on Saturday 11th June 2005. Although we were expecting a record attendance this year bad weather prevented the majority of aircraft flying in from the Highveld region. However the day was sunny and warm in the Lowveld's Wild Frontier and the event was once again a big success with a total of 46 aircraft participating.

General flying displays included local light aircraft dealers and manufacturers; Kitfox, Bantam and Eurostar. There were various short field take off and landing demo's, a Piper Cub formation display led by Mark Jackson of Leading Edge Aviation, an impressive helicopter display by Danie Terblanche of Leo Air, a microlight trike display by Toy du Toit and skydiving displays. There were various exhibits as well as a flea market and a jumping castle for the kids supplied by Gerard Goosen..

A Cessna Grand Caravan from Mission Aviation Fellowship gave a few STOL demo's and flips to many local underprivileged children. The Barberton Methodist Church supplied all the catering in aid of raising funds for missions and the volunteers for the many different positions during the event. There was plenty of food and beverage available all day and night, socializing around the bon fire lasted late into the night and a large bush breakfast was well supported on the Sunday morning with a Bible reading for those who couldn't make Church due to the event

Highlights of the event was the usual simulated Air Raid on the airfield incorporating tons of live explosives.(the African bush Pilots Fly-In is presently the only aviation event in Africa to have this show). The Bombing and strafing runs were performed by Tracy Robb in her Luftwaffe Dornier. As part of a fire drill the Forest Fire Association dispatched a Cessna 180 Spotter and five water bombers that included three PZL Dromaders, a Turbine Thrush and the massive Russian Mi8 helicopter to extinguish the fires caused by all the explosions during the Air Raid display. The Barberton Fire Department also participated and between all of of them about 10 tons of foam was dropped on the airstrip to the delight of all the kids who didn't hesitate to all stand on the firing line.

ATC, commentary & and Pyrotechnics was handled by CC Pocock. The event was well attended by aviation enthusiasts as well as all three SA Aviation Magazines, the Lowvelder and Barberton Times. Unfortunately due to the bad weather and attendance we had to cancel the fireworks display as we didn't raise sufficient funds to cover the cost of the fireworks. Thanks to everyone for their support and for making the 2005 African Bush Pilots Fly-In the success that was. We once again look forward to next years event. Event Organisers - CC & Shirley got engaged during the event. Finaly after 8 years!