Flying forward: André van Zyl

Known as South Africa’s gyrocopter ambassador, André is not your typical airshow act.

While jets and fixed-wing aircraft often steal the limelight, it’s the graceful swoop and agility of André’s Magni M16 gyrocopter that captures hearts – offering something different, something quietly profound. His story is one of rediscovery. After decades away from aviation, grounded by the responsibilities of life and family, André found himself at a crossroads in 2009. That’s when he encountered the gyrocopter – a unique aircraft that would become both his passion and his platform.
What followed was a remarkable comeback: training, practicing and eventually performing solo displays that reintroduced South African audiences to the potential and performance of rotorcraft. Today, André is a firm favourite on the airshow circuit – and a proud standard bearer for the rotary-wing community. There’s nothing quite like flying for your own people – in Bloemfontein, Polokwane, Durban. Every South African airshow has its own charm, but the local support fills your tank in ways no fuel ever could.

What has been your most memorable airshow of the last 20 years?
Maputo Airshow remains unmatched. The fusion of sea and sky, the logistical challenge of an international display and the sheer volume of spectators made it feel like the World Cup of airshows. From take-off to the final bow, it was electric.

What is a standout memory of airshows for you?
One that always sticks with me is witnessing the professionalism of South African airshow officials and safety teams. From ramp control to briefing sessions – there’s a dedication and excellence behind the scenes that the public rarely sees. It’s humbling and makes you
proud to be part of this community.

What are the big 5 Moments of your airshow career?
My first display – Middelburg, 2019. A moment seared into my memory. The culmination of years of training and nerves, and the beginning of my life as a display pilot. Feeling the crowd’s energy and executing my sequence cleanly was unforgettable. Maputo International Airshow. Flying over the ocean, seeing thousands of people lined along the beach, the international buzz – Maputo was a dream come true. It gave me the chance to represent South Africa on a global stage. Matsieng Airshow, Botswana. Always electric. Botswana crowds are some of the most appreciative and enthusiastic I’ve ever encountered. The camaraderie among pilots and organisers there is something special. Acceptance into the airshow community It’s not a single event, but a feeling. The moment I knew I was part of a passionate, elite fraternity of display pilots. The community welcomed me, supported me, and made me feel like I belonged. Flying for my home crowd.

What were you doing 20 years ago?
In 2005, I wasn’t flying at all. Life had taken over – family, work, and the kind of responsibilities that quietly push dreams aside. I had flown when I was younger but stopped for over two decades. Then, in 2009, I found gyrocopters… and with them, I found myself again. I began researching, training and eventually displaying – and I’ve never looked back.

Who are some of your finest aviation mentors?
I’ve been fortunate to learn from some of the best: Rikus Erasmus – he gave me the confidence and foundation to become a safe and
professional display pilot. Francois “Hosepipe” Hanekom, Keith Fryer and Juba Joubert – each of them influenced me in unique ways, from
technical advice to encouragement at critical moments. These men didn’t just guide me – they believed in me.

What advice would you give to your 20 year old self?
Never stop flying. There will always be reasons to pause. Life happens. But flying is oxygen for the soul. If I’d stayed connected, I would’ve had two more decades in the air. Still, I’m grateful for the second chance.

What would you like to see happen on the airshow circuit in the next 20 years?
Airshows can’t be left to fade into nostalgia. We need to build pipelines for new pilots – through workshops, mentorship, and opportunities. We also need to provide funding and logistics support for display acts, especially those with unique aircraft like mine. And finally we should celebrate not just the machines, but the people behind them. With the right structure, South African airshows can thrive – and continue to inspire kids who stand with eyes wide open on the fence line.