Fun, laughter, and high-flying excitement filled the air as Red Bull Flugtag returned to the V&A Waterfront on yesterday (2 November), for the third time in 13 years.
Teams set their sights on breaking the 2012 distance record of 17.09 metres, launching their quirky, handcrafted flying machines from a flight deck over seven meters high in hopes of soaring gracefully into the harbour.
A total of 43 teams took on the challenge, aiming to impress the judges not only with the creativity and craftsmanship of their flying contraptions but also with their entertaining pre-flight performances and the distance of their flight.
The Red Bull Flugtag returned to the V&A Waterfront on Sunday 2 November. Photo: Kaylynne Bantom 
Teams launched their quirky, handcrafted flying machines from a flight deck. Photo: Kaylynne Bantom 
About 43 teams took part. Photo: Kaylynne Bantom 
After a 13-year hiatus, Red Bull Flugtag crash-landed back into Cape Town. Photo: Kaylynne Bantom 
What teams lacked in sustained flight, they made up for in sheer spectacle, creativity. Photo: Kaylynne Bantom 
Teams showcased their impressively engineered” crafts. Photo: Kaylynne Bantom
Thousands of spectators flocked to the waterfront to witness the spectacle, enjoying a day filled with imagination, humour, and daring designs as teams showcased their talents in true Red Bull fashion.
But it was Thunderstruck who soared an impressive 19 meters taking the first place followed by Voy Skyjacks in second and Red Flamingoes in the third spot.
Thunderstruck pilot Scott Ternant said: “Two of our team members took part in the 2012 Red Bull Flugtag, and we had such a blast that we knew we had to come back, this time with a bigger team. We really wanted to be part of the action again. Winning the event feels incredible, Red Bull is such an iconic global brand, and it’s truly amazing to come out on top.”
