The Healthy Bastards Bush Pilot Champs is hosted by the Marlborough Aero Club, and is a perfect addition to their bush pilot and airstrip flight training courses they offer from their base at Omaka Airfield. The event promises thrilling action as competitors take to the skies showcasing their expertise in Short Take-Off and Landing (STOL) and precision landing.

A “STOL” aircraft is one that is specially designed or modified to take-off and land in as short a distance as possible, usually for the purpose of operating in and out of rough bush airstrips.

As with any competitive sport, there are some pilots that become obsessive with the goal to take-off & land in the minimum distance possible, and will go to any lengths to achieve that goal.

Adventure-seekers and aviation enthusiasts make sure you mark your calendar to come and witness some of the finest flying skills New Zealand has to offer.