SAMAA Aerial Concepts Combined Power Nationals at Barnstormers
By Willie Bodenstein
24-27.04.2026
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Pilots, builders and enthusiasts from across the country converged on the Barnstormers RC Flying Club during the April long weekend in Gauteng to showcase their flying skills, engineering talent and passion for powered model aviation at the Aerial Concepts 2026 SAMAA Combined Power Nationals.
Jeandre van der Schaar all the way from Qatar
Barnstormers, situated near Bapsfontein, has long been regarded as one of South Africa's premier model flying facilities. With its excellent runways, spacious flightline and first-class amenities, it provided the ideal setting for a championship of this stature. The club's reputation for hosting major events was once again evident in the smooth organisation and welcoming atmosphere throughout the competition.
The club played host to a number of SAMAA competition disciplines during the Combined Power Nationals, showcasing the diversity of the sport of radio-control flying. Pylon Racing demonstrated quick reactions, precision flying and exceptional teamwork.
Large Scale models impressed spectators with their authentic appearance and lifelike flying characteristics.
F3A futuristic custom-designed aerobatic aircraft thrilled the crowd with powerful vertical climbs, torque rolls and dramatic low-level routines.
Jets are what most visitors come to see, and once again the Aerial Concepts 2026 SAMAA Combined Power Nationals did not disappoint.
RC helicopters have evolved into some of the most extreme aerobatic competition craft of all. Watching what these highly skilled pilots can make their aircraft do is truly astonishing.
Because of the large number of visitors, and because conditions at Barnstormers did not suit some disciplines, Control Line and Free Flight events took place at the Big Water Airfield at Gariep Dam. The Boland Model Aircraft Club in Paarl hosted model gliding, while radio-control parachuting took place down the road from Barnstormers at Irene RC Club.
Behind every aircraft on the flightline lies countless hours of dedication. Many of the models competing represented months, and in some cases years, of careful construction, setup and testing. From expertly finished warbirds to highly specialised competition aircraft, the craftsmanship on display was every bit as impressive as the flying itself.
As always, events such as these are about far more than trophies and rankings. The Nationals offered an opportunity for like-minded enthusiasts to exchange ideas, renew friendships and encourage newcomers into the sport. Younger pilots also had the chance to learn from some of the country's most experienced competitors, ensuring that the future of radio-control aviation remains bright.
The SAMAA Combined Power Nationals once again highlighted the remarkable skill, discipline and camaraderie that define the South African aero modelling community. At Barnstormers, the sound of engines and the sight of aircraft carving perfect lines across the sky served as a reminder that aviation passion exists in every scale.
My sincere thanks to the wonderful folks at Barnstormers and to all those SAMAA members who have always made me feel welcome and who always have time to answer my myriad questions.
Rand Model Aeronautical Club Scale Fly In Part Six 41
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