Have you ever pondered the fate of old airplane wreckage? Typically, owners salvage usable parts before selling off the remains.
These salvaged parts often find new life as restaurant decorations, lodging amenities, or museum exhibits for aviation enthusiasts to admire up close.
Recently, Dare To Dream, a non-governmental organization dedicated to empowering youth, particularly in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics, and Entrepreneurship (STEAME), as well as Aviation and Aerospace careers, acquired an old BAE 146 aircraft. They are now looking to sell its fuselage to raise funds.
In an interview, Captain Kgomotso Phatsima, President and Founder of Dare To Dream, explained that while the fuselage could have been utilized for commercial purposes, their primary goal is to establish a STEAME Leadership Aviation Centre.
To realize this initiative, they must sell the fuselage to secure funds. Captain Phatsima mentioned that the fuselage, originally belonging to Air Botswana, was donated to their organization by Ansett Aircraft Spares and Services Limited.
She expressed that the sale of the fuselage aims to raise capital for their educational programs. "Initially, we envisioned using the fuselage as either a restaurant or a classroom for our STEAME project, but the lack of suitable land hindered our plans. Hence, the fuselage has remained unused for some time," she explained.
Since advertising the fuselage on social media, they've received interest from approximately 10 potential buyers, including one from the United States. Many of these interested parties are farmers seeking to incorporate the fuselage into their farm scenery for photo shoots.
Although the funds raised from the fuselage sale won't fully cover their expenses, it represents a step towards their broader project goals.
The fuselage is priced at P90,000, with room for negotiation based on factors like stripping and transportation, which would be the buyer's responsibility.
Captain Phatsima emphasized that their ultimate vision extends beyond fundraising. They aim to cultivate local interest in the aviation industry, particularly among youth and girls. "Given that much of the local aviation industry is dominated by foreigners, our Centre, once operational, will hopefully spark local interest," she remarked.
She expressed gratitude for the support received from entities like the AirBus Foundation, Air Botswana, and the government through agencies such as the Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana (CAAB).
Their objective is to finalize the fuselage sale by month-end, with ongoing discussions about logistics. Captain Phatsima reiterated Dare To Dream's missionto inspire and provide opportunities, especially to those, like herself, who lacked early exposure to aviation.
"Growing up in the village, I never had the chance to meet a pilot or step inside an aircraft until I became a military pilot. That experience led me to establish Dare To Dream, to inspire the next generationyouth, women, boys, and girlsto pursue their dreams," she shared.
The organization seeks support from individuals and businesses to achieve its goals, aiming to instill purpose and passion in the upcoming generation through education and career opportunities. Through the sale of the fuselage, they hope to secure the necessary funds for their missions.