The return of Red Bull Flugtag to South Africa saw the teams represent a remarkable cross-section of the Rainbow Nation. From the townships of Cape Town to the corporate towers of Johannesburg, and from university campuses to family kitchens, the entrants embodied the full spectrum of South African life.
Cape Town-based group The Extras, for instance, were made up of family members married into the same clan—no surprise they named themselves that. Mitchell’s Plain’s Joseph Van Syfer had previously stated,’ We want to create something special by combining our personas”.
He explained that they had planned to bring YoungstaCPT’s lyrical concept of taking “Wynberg to London in a quantum” to life, living by the mantra: “If it looks aerodynamic, it probably isn’t—but it’ll look cool going down!”
In contrast, Koppie Kopters, a Gauteng web development team, was the proudest multinational group in the competition, featuring South Africans, Canadians, and Kenyans.
They appealed to the spirit of Red Bull Flugtag, aiming to make a spectacle, not distance, with a name inspired by Table Mountain and helicopter hats. One of their team members, Yves, also makes psytrance music when he isn’t constructing flying devices.
Team FlySafair brought a fresh attitude and a professional edge, as the aviation engineers were all under 26 and aimed to turn their jobs into careers in flight.
Spectators certainly noticed the striking pink and blue FlySafair-branded aircraft, which represented Springbok pride and high expectations. Furthermore, The Wing Nuts, from Fourways, were on a mission.
This team of aviation-crazy pilots and enthusiasts competed in 2012, having spent 13 years seeking redemption. They were serious contenders who intended to beat the current world record, noting that their preparation included ‘lots of design on the machine, show choreographers, and a costume crew.’
A Feast of Creativity
Even the team names told stories. Air Wors and Wors Case Scenario celebrated boerewors, and Bunny Chowers nodded to Durban’s beloved bunny chow. Similarly, Hakuna Matuktuk fused Disney charm with local transport, while Rassies Dassies blended rugby culture and wildlife.
Gauteng also contributed Flying Minions and Curve Gear to the mix. KwaZulu-Natal saw the launch of Red Flamingoes. The Western Cape dominated with 32 teams, including Quantum Mechanics (with a taxi theme), the ambitious Da Vinci’s Dream, and Fishin’ Impossible with a flying fish concept.
The 2025 event was more than a competition; it proved to be a magnificent celebration of South African creativity, community, and courage. Teams aimed to break records, inspire laughter, and honour South Africa’s creative spirit, making this edition of Red Bull Flugtag Cape Town an unforgettable day.
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