South African Air Force Museum (Ysterplaat)

Table of Contents

Introduction

If you’re interested in aviation and military history, the South African Air Force Museum (SAAF) in Ysterplaat, Cape Town, is a must-visit destination. As an integral part of safeguarding the collective heritage and history of the SAAF, the museum is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and exhibiting articles and records related to the heritage and traditions of the SAAF and military aviation.

About the Museum

The SAAF Museum has its main branch at Air Force Base Swartkop and additional branches at Air Force Station Port Elizabeth and Air Force Base Ysterplaat. The Ysterplaat branch of the museum houses various historical artifacts of the SAAF in both static and flying conditions, giving visitors a glimpse into the rich history of the South African Air Force.

The museum’s purpose is to generate interest and educate the general public, particularly the youth, in military aviation through various initiatives such as the SAAF Museum Airshow. It has over 4000m² of hangers and halls exhibiting incredible planes, choppers and other historical displays.

The museum is open to the public from Monday to Friday, however the hanger is only open on Saturdays. It is highly recommended that people visit the museums on Saturdays, as the fighter planes, search and rescue planes and helicopters on view in the hanger makes for a fascinating experience. The museum also has a small flight simulator for visitor to try their hand at flying.

Visitors should note that the South African Air Force Museum is situated inside an operational Air Force Base, which means security is of utmost importance. Therefore, visitors must have proper personal identification, and military personnel at the gate reserve the right to search any individual coming and leaving the base.

Interesting Facts

The SAAF Museum houses its main branch at Air Force Base Swartkop, but also has branches at Air Force Station Port Elizabeth and Air Force Base Ysterplaat.
One of the notable aircraft at AFB Ysterplaat is the last airworthy Avro Shackleton, which unfortunately has been grounded for several years due to a lack of qualified aircrew and remaining airframe hours.
The Douglas C-47 Dakota on display at AFB Ysterplaat was used by the SAAF in 1952 to help acquire a coelacanth fish specimen from the Comoros Islands.
Public visiting the museum at AFB Ysterplaat should be aware that it is situated inside an operational air force base, and proper personal identification is required for security purposes.
The museum is operated by a group of passionate volunteers known as the Friends of the Museum. Visitors can sign up with the Friends by visiting their website.

Physical Location

Conclusion

The South African Air Force Museum in Ysterplaat, Cape Town, is a great destination for aviation and military history enthusiasts. With its collection of historical artifacts and dedication to preserving the heritage and traditions of the SAAF, the museum offers visitors a unique experience that they won’t soon forget. From the last airworthy Avro Shackleton to the Douglas C-47 Dakota used in the acquisition of a coelacanth fish specimen, the museum has something for everyone interested in the rich history of military aviation.