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”.
After reaching Cape Town in Part 2, Josh Flowers and Chelsea Smith of Aviation101, along with Chris Lammert and Keelyn Costello, reunite with friends and fly their Sling aircraft north from Stellenbosch through the Tankwa Karoo, before crossing into Namibia and exploring the spectacular Fish River Canyon. From formation flying and the Tanqua Kuru Bicycle Race to fireside celebrations and an off-airport landing in the desert, the journey becomes less about following a plan and more about embracing whatever comes next—because sometimes the most memorable part of flying happens after the engine shuts down.