The soul of a showman: Menno Parsons

When it comes to raw power and authentic presence in the sky, few South African pilots can match the
impact of Menno Parsons.

Whether tearing across the flightline in his iconic P-51 Mustang “Mustang Sally,” or hovering a Huey low over the crowd with rotor blades
thundering, Menno brings a unique blend of grace, guts and nostalgia to every airshow he flies. A businessman with a passion for fl ight, Menno’s aviation journey has evolved into a living museum in motion – preserving and flying some of the most legendary aircraft of
the 20th century. With a personal fleet that includes everything from piston warbirds to jets and helicopters, Menno is a rare breed: equal parts collector, commander and crowd-pleaser.
What are your top 5 moments from your airshow display career?
Durban Virginia Airport – A teenager once waited patiently in the Smoke On Go book signing queue. When he reached me, he proudly said that he was going to become a far more successful businessman than I was. That moment stuck with me – it reminded me why we do
what we do. If I can spark inspiration, even just once, I’m doing something right. Flying the P-51 Mustang with Dan Vance – Completing
my P-51 rating and prepping for African displays while flying over Napa Valley was a surreal experience. The combination of raw horsepower and scenic beauty was unforgettable. My display rating with Scully in Arnie’s Harvard – That moment of preparation was incredibly special. The way the team made time for us and shared their knowledge was something special. Sharing the sky with legends – Flying alongside Nigel, Jason, Larry, Rob, Alister, Buzz and so many other icons has been an absolute privilege. Every display with them
is its own highlight – I couldn’t pick just one. Post-display connections – That moment when you climb out of the aircraft and someone tells you they were moved or inspired. That fuels me to keep giving back. Those are the moments that make it all worth it.

Where were you in your aviation journey 20 years ago?
Twenty years ago, I thought I was Top Gun – but the truth is, I was nowhere near ready for the responsibilities of airshow fl ying. It took another four years of growth and hard lessons to be truly prepared. It was worth the wait!
Do you remember your first official airshow performance?
Absolutely – Port Elizabeth, 2010. Buzz and I performed a dual 407 helicopter display, and it was also the debut airshow for Mustang Sally, the first P-51 Mustang performance in Africa. I flew 100 people down and booked out the entire Marine Hotel. We even brought in pilots from the US and Russia to join the line-up. A beautiful day!
What has been your most memorable airshow in the past two decades?
The Wonderboom Adrenaline Show – hands down. The energy, the organisation, the crowd, the lineup – it was next level. I got to race choppers, roll aircraft and smoke up the skies with a thrilling mix of flying and showmanship.
Who would you name as the biggest mentor and personal hero?
That’s tough – there are too many to name just one. Scully Levin, Nigel Hopkins, Mike Weingartz, Dan Vance, Stu Davidson, Buzz, Alister… each has brought a unique style and standard that shaped the way I fly. Hero? Any pilot who dedicates themselves to preserving aviation history. That takes more than money – it takes heart, patience and a deep respect for those who flew before us.
What is your favourite airshow venue and why?
Rand Airport – It’s home base, and there’s something special about flying where it all began. But I’ve got a soft spot for Mozambique, Botswana and Virginia too – every show brings its own magic.
One standout memory that still gives you chills?
Honestly? Every single time I strap in, it resets the clock. New chills, new highs, new memories. I live for that next moment that will top the last. Makes life magic!
If you could go back and give your younger self some advice?
Keep going – but remember, it’s not just about the flying. It’s about the people. Be present, be engaged and share the journey. That’s where the real magic lives.
What would you love to see change in airshows over the next 20 years?
Airshows are about the people! Let’s keep raising the bar and make it even more magical for those on the crowd line. Add more energy, more connection – more zazz! And most importantly, bring in the next generation. We need young blood, fresh passion and bold new ideas. Let’s light up the skies together.