Cape Town: Here’s why military jets are flying over the city on Sunday

Ahh, the sounds of Sunday morning: Birds chirping, church bells ringing… and Air Force jets roaring through the sky? Residents of Cape Town have been left puzzled by the noise of military aircraft circling the city – but there’s a logical explanation, and thankfully, it’s one free of conflict.

Why are jets flying above Cape Town on Sunday 21 February?

Swathes of Capetonians reported hearing these planes around 8:00 today. Multiple jets could be heard making their way across town – with some comparing the event to a Hollywood blockbuster.

Remembering the SS Mendi

Here’s what is happening: A military fly-by is taking place to pay tribute to one of SA’s darkest hours: On the night of 21 February 1917, more than 600 men of the South African Native Labour Corps (SANLC) lost their lives in the sinking of the SS Mendi – the largest single loss of life for the non-combatants in the SANLC during the First World War.

The Mendi was carrying the SANLC to France, where they were due to serve as essential labour support to the ongoing fighting, when the SS Darro, a much larger mail ship, struck the troopship. Every year, this tragic incident is marked with a series of commemorative events – including an Air Force fly-by above Cape Town.

Cape Town: Where will the jets fly?

In total, four of these high-powered jets will make themselves heard at various intervals on Sunday – with the Castle of Good Hope getting an official flypast at 11:00.

Happy Armed Forces Day!South African Air Force flypasts over Castle of Good Hope at 11am.2x 41 Squadron Cessna 208A…

Posted by Aviation Central on Saturday, February 20, 2021


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