Flying for a Cause: Saluting The Bateleurs on World Pilots Day 26 April 2025

On World Pilots Day, we honour pilots around the globe — especially those who use their wings to protect more than just airspace. In Southern Africa, The Bateleurs, a non-profit network of volunteer pilots, exemplify this spirit by flying for a cause: conservation.

Founded in 1998, The Bateleurs have flown over 1,000 missions across 10 countries, supporting more than 150 organisations with free aerial support. Their work helps uncover environmental crimes, track endangered species, assist with wildlife rescues and relocations, and provide crucial data for conservation efforts that simply wouldn’t be possible from the ground.

These pilots donate their aircraft, time, and expertise to serve as “eyes in the sky,” from anti-poaching patrols to habitat surveys and aerial photography for litigation. Every mission is an act of personal commitment and environmental advocacy.

As General Manager and Director Steve McCurrach says, “Thousands of miles have been flown in the name of conservation over the past 26 years.” And through it all, The Bateleurs have remained steadfast — even flying during the COVID-19 lockdowns to transport animals and conduct critical searches.

This World Pilots Day, we salute The Bateleurs — everyday heroes who show what’s possible when aviation meets purpose.

Fly for nature. Fly for change. Fly with purpose.

👉 Read our mission stories: https://bit.ly/3sg6Dp4

Meet Steve McCurrach a volunteer pilot, GM of the Bats and a Director, who uses his wings to support conservation groups across Southern Africa. 🌍🦏🛩️

Meet Don Bailey, a volunteer pilot and Bats Director, who uses his wings to support conservation groups across Southern Africa. 🌍🦏🛩️

Meet Brandon Baker, a volunteer Bats and ZAP-Wing pilot, who uses his wings to support conservation. 🌍🦏🛩️