Saphire Blue Aviation

Here are a few essential tips to remember when approaching or leaving a helicopter:
+ Do not approach the helicopter unless escorted by the pilot or crew members
+ If on uneven ground, approach or depart from the downhill side for maximum rotor clearance
+ Do not raise anything above the head and crouch while walking in the vicinity of the helicopter
+ Beware of downwash; protect your eyes with safety goggles or turn your head when the helicopter is landing and departing

This could be you! For Pilot training, Scenic flights, business trips, buying helicopters or aeroplanes - please contact us.

Its been a busy week here at Saphire Blue. Drones course going on, first solos, final ppl exams done and a few introduction flights. Here we see Danielle testing the waters deciding if she is ready to start a new career as a pilot. We will see you soon for more lessons!

Congratulations Milan. Your first solo was a huge milestone. We are all very proud of you!

Beautiful Matric Farewell Photos taken at our Hangar. Love the Dress, and the Dog!

Helicopters are a popular form of transportation for short-distance flights, aerial tours, and emergency services.

Here are some interesting facts about them:

1. Helicopters can fly backwards, sideways, and hover in place, thanks to their unique design and rotor blades.

2. The first successful helicopter was invented by Igor Sikorsky in 1939, revolutionizing aviation.

3. Helicopters have an incredible power-to-weight ratio, allowing them to take off and land vertically.

4. Some military helicopters are equipped with stealth technology to reduce radar detection.

5. Helicopters can be used for a variety of purposes, including search and rescue, firefighting, transportation, and military operations.

6. The helicopter with the longest range is the Sikorsky S-92, which can travel over 1,000 miles on a single tank of fuel.

7. The record for the highest helicopter flight ever recorded is 40,820 feet, set by the Eurocopter AS350 in 2002.

8. Helicopters are capable of performing aerobatic maneuvers such as loops and rolls, despite their heavier weight compared to airplanes.

9. Some helicopters are equipped with retractable landing gear, allowing them to land on both wheels and skids.

10. Helicopters have a distinctive sound, often described as a “whup-whup” noise, produced by the rotation of their rotor blades.

Did you know - 80 percent of population are afraid of flying.

So only 20% of us appreciate how truly amazing it is to experience the thrill of flight!

Did you know - Saphire Blue does not only offer helicopter charters, we also offer drone (RPAS) training and operations, as well as fixed wing and helicopter training.