The Sling Squawk – June 2026
7 Jun 2026
Rafael Nali (electrical, sub-assembly), Rafael Goncalves (Electrical, sub-assembly) and Edimar Dettogni Zanelato (engines, sub-assembly) from TAF Brasil LTDA visited The Airplane Factory from March 28th to May 31st. and were trained in various disciplines at the factory. This was indeed Rafael Goncalves’ and Edimar’s second trip having been to the Airplane Factory in 2017, where they spent 3 months honing their skills.
Rafael Goncalves is a mechanical engineer and taught physics as a teacher before entering airplane production. Edimar is a mechanical engineer and developed computer systems, while Rafael Nali is a first-year student at Vila Velha University or the University of Espírito Santo, in Brazil).
They were ecstatic about the training, Rafael Goncalves commented: “We were stunned by the South Africa weather conditions, namely a first time we have experienced hail, and then there is the traffic congestion and driving habits, and the crazy weather which changes so frequently”.
The adventure continues! For once, there are no border crossings to navigate, no custom stops, and no major travel plans on the schedule. Just a quiet day at home. Naturally, that doesn’t last long… When Sling Chief Test Pilot, Riaan Denner, has an idea, you know things are about to get interesting. In this episode, Josh and Chelsea take to the skies over Johannesburg for some banner towing, go behind the scenes at the incredible Jonker Sailplanes factory, make a completely unplanned stop to meet a very special young zebra, and then set off on the next major leg of the journey — heading south towards Plettenberg Bay and Cape Town.