New lease of life for the BK-117
Date: 28 January 2008
What should have been a rather sad and sombre function turned out to be a rather joyous occasion, when Brig. Gen. Jakes Msimang announced that the BK-117 helicopters in service with the SAAF would be gradually phased out. Two of the aircraft have already been mothballed at AFB Bloemspruit, but the good news was that a further four are to remain in service with Charlie flight 15 Squadron AFB Port Elizabeth.
Msimang made the announcement at an exclusive function which was held on the beach at the Willows in Port Elizabeth. The guests were treated to a four ship display followed by a solo display flown by Lt. Col. Wayne Sharpe with Flight Engineer Mike Bottom. The guests were then treated to a three ship display with Captains Ben Arnold, Ryan Shriver and Kevin Ellis flying.
The BK-117s are to remain in service for a further one year. The Air Force was so convinced that the BKs would be taken out of service that they had already positioned an Oryx in Port Elizabeth to take over the duties of the BK-117s.
Source: African Pilot Newsletter 04 - 2008
