The Sling Squawk – June 2026
7 Jun 2026
What a quarter it’s been! From the shores of South America to the halls of Friedrichshafen, from transatlantic adventures to regulatory milestones — the Sling story keeps writing itself in the most extraordinary ways, and we are so proud to be the ones building the planes that make it all possible.
So, what have we been up to?
AERO Friedrichshafen 2026 was a landmark moment for us. James, Greg and I made the trip over with our incredible European distributor network, in particular Johan, Paul, Wilmer, Rens and Bram from Aircraft Builders Europe, who worked incredibly hard at setting up our stand, providing the planes for the booth and spending long hours during the day talking to people about the Sling and long nights drinking German beers. The energy on the Sling stand was something else entirely. The highlight? Handing over the very first Sling High Wing delivered into Europe — live on stage, to ROTAX Aircraft Engines no less. Proudly built by Aircraft Builders Europe! It doesn’t get much more symbolic than that. Europe is well and truly Sling territory now, and we’ve got big plans for next year’s show. Watch this space.
Closer to home — well, closer to South America — Captain General Major Brigadier Barry Williams completed one of the most jaw-dropping adventures we’ve ever had the privilege of being associated with. 52 flight hours, 26 days, two continents, and vast stretches of open ocean in a Sling TSi. Barry landed on St Helena, crossed the Atlantic, and proved once again that when a Slinger has a dream and a plan, the Sling will get them there. Read his story below — it’s the good stuff.
On the regulatory front, Brazil’s ANAC has officially authorised the Sling TSi as a Special Light Sport Aircraft — making Sling Brazil the first Brazilian manufacturer to receive this recognition, and the TSi only the second four-seat Special LSA in the world. That’s not a small thing. That’s years of hard work paying off in the best possible way.
And if that wasn’t enough, AOPA named the Sling High Wing one of the top five coolest aircraft of 2025. We’ll take it!
For local Slingers, AERO South Africa is almost upon us — 10th to 12th June at Lanseria — and our Tedderfield Sling June fly-in on the 27th is going to be a cracker. Come out, say hello, and let’s share some airspace.
There’s loads more below, so strap in and enjoy the ride.
Cheers all!
Andrew
Director
It’s go‑time! Load up your gear, strap on your gravel shoes, and aim for the wide‑open Karoo horizon. The Tanqua Kuru is calling, and we’re answering with throttles, pedals, and hearts wide open. At least four Sling aircraft and our solid team of riders will make the pilgrimage to Tankwa Tented Camp for what’s become an annual tradition of grit, gravel, and greatness.
There’s still one title former Springbok Bob Skinstad hasn’t claimed… This isn’t a stadium victory. No crowds, no ceremony, no easy applause. This one is fought for. Across endless gravel, through the dust, under the relentless Tankwa sun. And he’s chasing it down on a Sling Cycles Tagati. So, the question is — when he rolls up to the start line… will you be there with him?
