If you’ve been there and done that, and you’re now looking for a thrill to top all the rest – the sky’s your limit! Based in Durban, but operating throughout South Africa, Sky Adventures has seven breath-taking aviation rides that are guaranteed to leave you with awe-inspiring memories long after you’ve landed back on terra firma. These include hot air balloon rides, gyrocopter flights, helicopter rides, microlight flights, bi-plane flights, tandem-skydiving jumps and tandem-paragliding flights.

Through a Q&A session with Sky Adventures’ owner, Wendy Richards, we find out what inspired her to start the business and why she is so passionate about it.

Q: What inspired Sky Adventures?

A: My partner, Tristam Burrell, was a pilot and introduced me to the delight of flying. Three months after we started the business he was killed in a tragic accident, and it was his passion for flying that encouraged me to continue with the business on my own – as I wanted to share this with as many people as possible.

Q: Tell me about your product and how it’s unique

A: Sky Adventures is the only flying adventure company of its kind. Offering a range of flying experiences, we personalise our packages and also offer personalised gift vouchers. I run the company by myself and have a great team of highly experienced pilots on board.

Q: In what ways do you think your business is benefiting the community?

A: I offer a great affordable service to the community – an opportunity for them to make dreams come true!

Q: What are the main challenges when running your own business?

A: The main challenge for Sky Adventures is definitely the weather. All our experiences are weather dependent, and as the weather is totally out of our control – you can understand how difficult it makes it for us.

Q: What are the main rewards?

A: The biggest reward for me is without doubt the many thank-you letters I receive from happy, satisfied and thrilled customers.

Q: Why do you think your business is successful?

A: I firmly believe that my business is successful because it is something I am passionate about!

Q: What advice can you give to someone starting their own business?

A: Never give up even when times are hard. Follow your dream, stay positive and your business will be a success.

Q: How is marketing important for Sky Adventures?

A: Marketing and networking is vital, and word-of -mouth is without doubt the best form of advertising.

For more info, tel 073 334 7911 or e-mail [email protected]

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