Let me also point out that as per recent news articles, the African Continent has the highest rate of aircraft accidents in the world even though it only has 3% of the planes in the world. In 2003, Africa accounted for 50% of air-related fatalities in the world. You would think they need good pilots like this guy! But he is White! Jan]
A chip off the old block
(By: Jacci Babich)
Luke Remington, younger son of Former SAA pilot Blake Flemington and his wife Bronwen, (former Bryanston residents), was recently awarded top honours by the RAF when he received his wings.
He was awarded four of the RAFs seven coveted trophies - Top Flying Student, Top Ground Student, Top Navigator and Top All Round Student.
Yet, when he applied to join the SAAF a few years ago he was turned down.
Although among the final SAAP selection, at 17, he was told he was too young (and the wrong colour).
Flemington went overseas, undertook various courses and eventually obtained New Zealand citizenship.
He applied to the Australian and New Zealand air forces and the RAF and was accepted by all three.
"The RAF offered the biggest challenge and the best aircraft," he said with a grin after the moving ceremony, done with all the precision, pomp and ceremony that Britain customarily produces. A chip off the old block, he is a third generation Flemington flyer. His father Blake distinguished himself both in the SAAF and with SAA before he joined the massive flight of South African pilots overseas in a quest for better pay and flying conditions with other airlines. Blake was also the only SAA pilot to be skyjacked, an ordeal he escaped from with honour when he managed to land the plane in Blantyre, Malawi. With immense personal courage, between negotiations and helping passengers to escape, all passengers were released and the skyjackers captured.