SOUTH AFRICA’S FIRST BLACK COMMERCIAL BALLOON PILOT

In 2022, Komane Harold Tjiana made history by completing his balloon pilot licence, making him the first black male hot air balloon pilot in the country. To make his next dream come true, The RE/MAX Foundation will contribute R100,000 towards his Commercial pilot training.

Backed by Balloon Airship Federation of South Africa, Harold qualified as a pilot in September 2022 thanks to a grant from the Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture. “Being the first black male in SA to achieve a free balloon pilot licence feels great. I feel honoured and privileged. As a child growing up in a small village called Thabakhubedu in Limpopo, and to be the first to achieve this, I truly feel like the impossible became possible,” says Harold. 

His next ambition is to qualify as a Class 1 commercial balloon pilot; but, in order to achieve this, Harold has to complete a total of 100 hours solo flying time. On completion of these hours, Harold will again make history in South Africa by becoming the first black commercial balloon pilot.

“Thanks to the donation from The RE/MAX Foundation, Harold will be aiming to complete at least 10 hours a month and is hoping to complete his 100 hours early in the new year,” explains Adam Fillmore, owner of Air Ventures.

Harold currently holds a free balloon pilot licence (which allows him to fly privately) and is the Crew Chief at Air Ventures. Upon becoming a commercial balloon pilot, Harold will be able to fly passengers for reward and allow him to fly balloons less than 120 000 cubic ft (with the RE/MAX balloon being 105 000 cubic ft). “There are four classes of commercial balloons in South Africa, with each requiring 100 hours of flying time on Class, before being able to convert to the next Class,” explains Adam.

Harold was first introduced to the ballooning industry by a friend in 2000 and since then, he has loved almost everything about it. “After matriculating, I moved to Gauteng because there was no funds to further my studies, which meant looking for job was my only option. At that time, everything looked impossible for me to become a hot air balloon pilot, but my inspiration, passion, and resilience kept me going towards achieving my goal. In a nutshell perseverance pays, because my journey had many hardships and obstacles, but still, I endured it.”  

“We are incredibly proud to be able to support Harold in his journey towards achieving his dreams,” says Adrian Goslett, Regional Owner & CEO for RE/MAX of Southern Africa. “His story is a true inspiration to others. We wish him all the best with the many flight hours to follow.”  

“I'm very grateful to everyone contributed to this – though is not the end, just the beginning of a new chapter. Now, my career and future certainly looks bright. I thank you,” says Harold.