Flight Crew & Expedition Leaders

Charter Pilot (ATPL) | Operations Manager

AFRICAN AIR SAFARIS was founded by Capt. Wiehahn Strauss, a seasoned charter pilot whose deep-rooted love for Africa has shaped every mile of this journey. Born in Pretoria, Wiehahn has flown across the continent — 

from Malawi’s open skies to the forests of 

Central Africa — and around the world, from the Middle East to Papua New Guinea. With over 2,500 hours logged across commercial and private aviation, he has returned to his greatest passion: sharing Africa’s wild heart from the cockpit.

"Africa remains mysterious, magical, wild, and wonderful." Wiehahn Strauss

Bush Pilot (CPL) | Wildlife Guide 

Mike White is an adventurer at heart and owner of African Sky Runners 

( www.africaskyrunners.com )

With nearly 1,000 hours of bush flying experience and advanced ratings under his belt, he swapped a senior banking career for the cockpit, answering a deeper calling.

As both pilot and guide, Mike brings a calm confidence, storytelling spirit, and deep reverence for the wild. Whether soaring over Botswana or walking canyon trails, he leads AFRICAN AIR SAFARIS with soulful precision and quiet awe.

“I’ve seen Africa in the morning, I’ve seen her at noon, but it’s at sunset that we always share something unspoken.” Mike White

 Bush Pilot (CPL) | Flight Instructor

Charl is a born aviator with a deep love for the African skies. With years of flying experience and a Commercial Pilot Licence under his belt, he brings unmatched skill and calm precision to every flight. 

Passionate about Africa and wide open landscapes, Charl thrives in places where runways are dirt strips and nature reigns supreme. Whether he’s navigating the canyons of the Karoo or landing beside a waterhole, Charl brings authenticity, professionalism, and a steady hand to every journey.

“Adventure begins the moment the wheels leave the ground.” Charl Plaut

Travel & Reservations Manager

At the heart of every seamless journey with AFRICAN AIR SAFARIS is Ciska Bronkhorst, our dedicated Travel & Logistics Manager. 

With an unmatched love for Africa’s wild places and a genuine passion for people, Ciska ensures each guest experience is effortless, personal, and unforgettable. Whether she’s coordinating complex itineraries or handling last-minute changes with calm and care, her intuitive understanding of both logistics and hospitality is what sets her apart.

Her warm presence and eye for detail bring balance to every adventure.

"Wherever you go, go with your whole heart." Ciska Bronkhorst

Relations & Brand Manager

Karen Strauss brings a rich tapestry of experience and passion to African Air Safaris. 

With a distinguished background in corporate branding and communication, paired with her training as a journalist, Karen has an innate talent for storytelling and building meaningful connections.

Raised between the vast plains of the Great Karoo in Graaff-Reinet and the vibrant heart of Lilongwe, Malawi, Karen’s roots run deep into Africa’s soil. 

When she’s not fostering partnerships, you’ll likely find her exploring hidden corners of nature, sharing her adventures on her YouTube channel @YourForestFairy, where she inspires others to embrace the magic of the outdoors.

“Dance through life with curiosity, kindness, and a spark that lights up every room.”

Karen Strauss

Guide | Conservationist | Storyteller of the Wild

John Dlamini is more than a guide, he’s a guardian of Africa’s untamed beauty. With a deep-rooted knowledge of the land and a lifelong commitment to conservation, John brings the wilderness to life for every guest who walks beside him.

Raised in the heart of the bush, John’s understanding of Africa’s ecosystems runs deep—from the tracks in the dust to the calls at dusk. His calm presence, sharp instincts, and rich storytelling turn every safari into an immersive, unforgettable experience.

As part of the African Air Safaris team, John plays a vital role in connecting guests with the land, wildlife, and culture of each destination. Whether he’s tracking lions at dawn or sharing wisdom around a fire under the stars, he ensures every journey is grounded in authenticity and respect for the natural world.

"The bush doesn’t need a script. Just silence, patience, and a curious heart."