About
A European pilot who fell in love with South Africa
My name is Walter Rijk. I founded Bushwings Aviation because I genuinely love flying in South Africa — and I want other pilots to be able to do the same.
Coming from a European background, I know exactly what it’s like to land somewhere new with a foreign licence, unfamiliar terrain, and a stack of SACAA paperwork to work through. I’ve been there. That experience shapes how I run Bushwings.
When you rent ZS-SOE, you’re not dealing with a faceless rental company. You’re dealing with me — the person who maintains the aircraft, knows its quirks, and flies it regularly. I answer my own emails and my own phone.
ZS-SOE is well-equipped, well-maintained, and ready for Africa. I take real pride in that. Before you fly, I’ll make sure you’re prepared — whether that means a thorough briefing on bush strip operations, help with your licence validation, or simply talking you through what to expect on your route.
I hope to fly with you. — Walter
Operators who fly with Bushwings
ZS-SOE is used by leading fly-in safari operators for their customers. If you’re planning an organised fly-in tour, your operator may already know us.