On Easter Sunday, the South African Airways Museum Society (SAAMS) hosted a simulated flight experience celebrating the golden age of air travel aboard the DC-4 ZS-BMH “Lebombo,” positioned on the ramp in front of the Rand Airport terminal building—a location with which the aircraft is deeply familiar.
The event also marked the beginning of an important milestone year for the organisation. As SAAMS Chairperson Peter Boshoff explained, the experience forms part of the Society’s 40th anniversary celebrations. Established in 1986 at what was then Jan Smuts Airport (now OR Tambo International Airport), the museum has a long and distinguished history, much of it closely tied to Rand Airport. Hosting the event at this historic airfield reflects a return to its operational roots and highlights its enduring role in South African aviation heritage.
During the experience, passengers dressed in period attire enjoyed an authentic recreation of mid-century air travel, complete with wine or juice service and a three-course meal. The cabin crew commenced proceedings with a welcome and simulated safety briefing, followed by a detailed and engaging passenger briefing that set the tone for the journey.
In the briefing, the DC-4—also known as the Skymaster—was introduced as one of the most influential aircraft in aviation history, alongside its predecessor, the DC-3. First flown in 1942 and originally developed for military transport, more than 1,200 examples were built, serving both military and commercial roles. South African Airways introduced the type in 1946, ushering in a new era of long-range air travel following the DC-3.
Passengers were given insight into the aircraft’s capabilities and operations. Flying unpressurised at altitudes of around 8,000 to 10,000 feet and cruising at approximately 225 miles per hour, the DC-4 offered a level of comfort that, for its time, was considered exceptional. It also played a pioneering role in passenger experience, with early forms of in-flight entertainment introduced on board—an innovation that has since become standard in modern aviation.
The aircraft’s engineering was equally impressive. Powered by four Pratt & Whitney R2000 “Double Wasp” engines, each with 14 cylinders, the DC-4 produces a combined output of approximately 5,800 horsepower. Maintaining such an aircraft was—and remains—a labour-intensive process, reflecting the hands-on nature of aviation during that era.
The atmosphere throughout the experience was distinctly nostalgic, enhanced by the setting at Rand Airport—the oldest operating commercial airport in South Africa—the cabin crew dressed in vintage South African Airways uniforms, and guests embracing the occasion through their attire. For those who travelled during the era, the experience rekindled fond memories, while offering younger generations a rare glimpse into the past.
Boshoff emphasised that the event also serves a broader purpose: preserving and sharing South Africa’s aviation legacy. He noted that the museum aims to give the public greater insight into the importance of aviation history, particularly that of South African Airways, once regarded as a symbol of national pride. Events such as these play a key role in keeping that history alive and accessible.
Looking ahead, the Society plans to host a variety of commemorative activities throughout the anniversary year, including onboard film screenings, vintage aircraft tours, and interactive experiences inspired by early air travel. Members of the public are also encouraged to contribute to preservation efforts by donating historical aviation memorabilia, such as old tickets, timetables, and photographs, which help tell the story of the country’s aviation development.
Adding a personal perspective, former DC-4 captain Mike Winterton reflected on his experiences flying the aircraft, describing it as both demanding and deeply rewarding. He recalled a memorable 14-day journey across Africa, which included stops in Zanzibar, Nairobi, Kigali, and Victoria Falls, as well as visits to renowned wildlife destinations.
“It was probably one of the best trips we ever did on this aircraft,” he said. “Many hours flown, incredible destinations—and despite the age of the aircraft, the only issue we had was a magneto change, which we carried out ourselves before continuing.”
Winterton highlighted the hands-on and highly coordinated nature of operating the aircraft. With traditional analogue instrumentation and the presence of a flight engineer, cockpit operations required constant monitoring and teamwork. Tasks such as fuel measurement and engine management were performed manually, underscoring the complexity of flying during that era.
Despite these challenges, he described the DC-4 as a remarkably reliable aircraft and a cornerstone of early international air travel.
“This was truly the golden age of aviation,” he noted. “These aircraft pioneered many of the routes we still use today. Flying was an experience—people dressed for it, and it carried a sense of occasion that’s largely been lost.”
ZS-BMH “Lebombo”
BMH was the final DC-4 ever produced and was delivered to South African Airways in 1947. The aircraft completed several historic journeys around the world. Among the most notable was a tour led by Captain Flippie Vermeulen to honour the 89 South African crew members who participated in the Berlin Airlift of 1948. In 1998, Captain Vermeulen commanded a commemorative flight to Zurich marking the 50th anniversary of the Berlin Airlift, during which he bestowed upon the aircraft the name “Spirit of Peace.” During the Cold War blockade, DC-4 aircraft played a vital role in delivering cargo and supplies to isolated citizens.
An especially remarkable chapter in this aircraft’s history occurred in 1962, when it sustained severe damage after a mid-air collision near Durban that tore away a significant portion of its tail. Despite this, the aircraft landed safely—an enduring testament to the DC-4’s robust design and engineering.
Highlighting its uniqueness, Boshoff noted that ZS-BMH is the youngest DC-4 ever built—the final example to roll off the Douglas production line—making it an exceptionally significant piece of aviation history. Restoration efforts continue, with the aim of returning the aircraft to its original condition as it appeared nearly 80 years ago.
The DC-4, powered by four Pratt & Whitney R2000 engines, had a range of approximately 2,000 nautical miles (3,600 km) and an endurance of up to 12 hours. It could accommodate between 44 and 86 passengers and had a maximum take-off weight of 33 tons.
