This spectacular aviation event is set to take flight on Saturday, 10 May, bringing together families, aviation lovers, and thrill seekers from across the country at the Nelspruit Airport.
ALSO READ: Mpumalanga Air Show set to ignite the skies
The gates will open at 10:00, welcoming early visitors to enjoy a festive atmosphere filled with vendors, food stalls, and a beer garden. Throughout the morning, aircraft arrivals and display validations will take place, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the action that lies ahead. From 13:00, the skies will begin to stir with model-aircraft demonstrations, including a performance by the model Extra 330 LX.
This will be followed by an exciting sequence featuring Harvards, Navions, AT802s, and helicopter take-offs, with fire trucks and emergency vehicles showcased on the runway.
The main show officially begins at 14:45 with a high-impact Vietnam War-themed opening that will consist of AT802 Air Tractors, Harvards and Navions, as well as helicopters and skydivers, and the L29 jet with a fire wall. This dramatic sequence will include a performance by the Airlink Embraer 190E, a heart-racing aerial display by the Puma Flying Lions, a solo from the Extra 330 LX, and a thrilling helicopter-vs-car race.The intensity continues from 16:00 with a helicopter formation display, followed by individual highlights such as the Navion display, the agile RV7, and the powerful Kishugu fire-fighting demonstration featuring UH-1s and AT802s.
Spectators can also look forward to the L29 jet and a graceful gyrocopter display.
At 17:00, skydivers will descend with a massive South African flag, marking the beginning of the grand finale. A glider will trace elegant paths through the sky, followed by the Flying Lions’ Sunset Show and their explosive Torra Torra Display. Hot-air balloons will rise as twilight sets in, setting the stage for a breathtaking fireworks display at 18:05. The programme will officially conclude at 18:15.
ALSO READ: Mpumalanga Air Show announces cancellation of Paul Zuilenburg Orchestra performance
Beyond the thrilling aerial performances, the airshow promises a vibrant ground experience with hundreds of food and craft stalls, a dedicated kids play area, and multiple entertainment zones to keep families engaged throughout the day.
Tickets are selling fast and are available online until 8 May. General admission is priced at R195 per adult, R110 for pensioners aged 65 and over, and R85 for children aged two to 12 (note that access to the kids play area is sold separately).
ALSO READ: Mpumalanga Tourism joins Lowveld Airshow 2025 as official partner
For those looking to elevate their experience, a VIP ticket is available at R500 per adult. This exclusive option includes gourmet canapés, access to a private cash bar, and comfortable, covered seating in a shaded area.
Parking is offered in two tiers. On-site parking is limited to only 200 tickets and costs R250 per vehicle. These tickets must be bought online in advance. Alternatively, public parking is available at R20 per vehicle, payable in cash only upon arrival at the Mpumalanga Air Show.
Visitors may bring non-glass water bottles, camp chairs, child-identification measures, sunscreen and hats. However, no alcohol, glass containers, cooler boxes (except for water), unauthorised gazebos or umbrellas, laser devices, or any type of weapon will be allowed.
“This air show is a tribute to the people of Mpumalanga and a celebration of flight,” says Johan Heine, chairperson of the Mpumalanga Air Show. “Every year we raise the bar, and 2025 will be our biggest, boldest, and most unforgettable event yet.”
Join us as the sky becomes a canvas of smoke, colour, and thunder. Secure your tickets, plan your day, and do not miss this high-flying celebration!
Tickets can be bought exclusively online through Quicket.
For more information on the Mpumalanga Air Show and to buy tickets, click here.
