A local business that encourages people to step back in time and experience the thrill of flying in an authentic open-cockpit biplane has reached new heights with a win at this year’s Bunbury Geographe Business Excellence Awards.
Open Air Adventure Flights took out the Emerging Business category sponsored by the South West Development Commission as part of the awards program organised by the Bunbury Geographe Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
From restoring and operating a historic Boeing Stearman to offering memorable aviation experiences, it has been an incredible journey for Johan Strydom since first charting a course for their business.
The unique flight experiences were launched at the start of the year, after the idea for the business was sparked through Johan’s lifelong passion for aviation, vintage aircraft and seeing something truly magical in the Boeing Stearman.
Much of the two years preceding the launch was spent sourcing the aircraft, completing restoration work, navigating approvals and certifications, and preparing every aspect of the business before welcoming their first passengers.
Now, Open Air Adventure Flights has received official recognition for their efforts through an award they are proud of that represents their hard work, persistence and shared vision to create something truly unique.
Passengers can experience flying in Winnie, the restored 1941 vintage biplane that was originally built as a military trainer in World War II before being repurposed as a crop-dusting aircraft in the USA. The plane then went on to open new chapters in California and New Zealand before taking the skies over Bunbury. Winnie is piloted by Johan who has more than 20 years of flying experience.
Locals and visitors can contact Open Air Adventure Flights for an experience that celebrates the golden age of aviation and showcases the beauty of Bunbury from above. For more information, visit the official website – www.openairflights.com.au .
