Visit to the SAAF museum, Ysterplaat

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Wednesday, 02 February 2011
Written by Lesley Cox
Back to: Educationals

Only 15 minutes by car from Cape Town, the CTGA visited the South African Air Force museum which is a must-see for guests with an interest in military history.

 

We entered the main Air Force base at Ysterplaat, just off the Koeberg road and security pointed us in the right direction of the museum, where we were welcomed by curators Chris Teale and Tammy Park.

The first exhibition was the 1940’s War and I immediately noticed the Nazi and old South African flags.  Apparently it was a common question from visitors to ask why they show these flags. Tammy explained that they felt it was important for visitors learn their significance in history and then move forward.

Additional exhibitions included, The Korean War, Heritage Hall, and an East German Display.  Within the Heritage Hall, there was a ladies display which demonstrated their important contribution during aviation history.

In the planetarium, Tammy pointed out the significant stars for the Southern hemisphere and the important role it plays for pilot training.  Pilots need to learn navigation using the stars (like the olden days), in case their GPS breaks down.

Adjacent to the museum, Tammy opened up the small Hangar and showed us three planes.  She informed us about Hangar Four which is located in the heart of the Air Force Base.  It contains a selection of planes, including the Shackleton Mark 3, two Mirages and the famous Coelacanth C-47.  Special permission needs to be obtained to visit this Hangar as it is located in a restricted area.

The SAAF museum is open from Monday – Friday 7am – 3.30pm and Saturday mornings 8.30am – 12.30pm.  Entry is free, although a donation will be appreciated.

For aviation enthusiasts or groups, it is advisable to phone the curator in advance and make an appointment.  Special clearance needs to be obtained (they need your ID faxed through) to visit Hangar Four, although it is worth checking as this is sometimes opened on a Saturday morning.

Curator: Chris Teale Tel 021 508 6576