South Africa: The South African Air Force Museum Port Elizabeth has reached a significant milestone and has been named as no.1 recipient among the four Museum honoured with the prestigious 2025 Global Tourism Excellence (GTE) International Award for Excellence in Tourism. The recognition placed the historic aviation institution among recognised contributors to the global tourism landscape.
The award acknowledged the Museum’s commitment to preserve South Africa’s aviation heritage. It also promotes historical education and provides visitors with meaningful experiences that connects the past with the present.
Significantly for years, the SA Air Force Museum Port Elizabeth has served as a display of aircraft and aviation artefacts. Noe, it has become a living centre of history, where visitors gain insight into the evolution of South African aviation, the people behind the aircraft, and the role of air power in the country’s story.
This recognition was important because it highlights the value of heritage tourism in the Eastern Cape. Museums such as the SA Air Force Museum contributes in preserving history and in strengthening local tourism. Also, such honour create educational opportunities and inspire future generations to explore careers and interests within aviation and aerospace.
The achievement is a reflection of the dedication, passion and hard work of the Museum’s incredible team which consists of Warrant Officer-2 Morne Bellingam (SA Air Force Museum Curator); Lance Corporal Odwa Mbango; the Friends of the SA Air Force Museum Port Elizabeth; aviation enthusiasts and supporters who continuously invested their time and resources in keeping this legacy alive.
According to the SA Air Force Museum Curator – Warrant Officer-2 Bellingan, this achievement belongs to the Museum and to every supporter, members of the community and every visitor who walks through the Museum doors. Their continued support has enabled them to preserve their aviation heritage and share it with future generations.
Beyond the honour of receiving international recognition, this honour confirms that the work being done at the SA Air Force Museum Port Elizabeth has a lasting impact. It demonstrates the preserving aviation history, which is about remembering where they come from, and about inspiring where they are going. The award places the Museum firmly on the tourism map, while it also encourages continued growth, innovation and engagement with local and international visitors.
This recognition is a proud achievement for the Port Elizabeth community and the Eastern Cape, as it showcased the province’s ability to offer world-class heritage experiences and attractions. The SA Air Force Museum Port Elizabeth celebrated this achievement, as it looks towards the future with renewed purpose. It will continue to preserve stories of courage, innovation and aviation excellence.
GTE award is a celebration of the Museum’s past achievements. It is a launchpad for the future. SA Air Force Museum Port Elizabeth continues to prove that when passion, heritage and community come together, the sky is truly the limit.