Chapman Freeborn Airchartering take their South Africa division to new heights

Leading air charter specialists, Chapman Freeborn, have taken the South Africa team to new heights this year with the key focus being on growth and expansion.

Following Gerhard Coetzee’s promotion to Regional Manager IMEA Cargo, in December 2021, the focus has been to develop and grow the market in the region, supporting and delivering on the wider IMEA strategy.

Jenna Woods, Passenger & VIP Charter Broker and Theon Pretorius, Cargo Charter Broker were appointed in January 2022.

Based in the Chapman Freeborn South Africa office, Johannesburg, they join Jenny van Wyk, Passenger & VIP Charter Broker and Tristan Caldeira, Cargo Charter Broker.

Gerhard Coetzee

Gerhard has worked in aviation for 20 years, when he began his career as an export agent before qualifying as a loadmaster and then an Operations Manager. He has been with Chapman Freeborn for 7 years and is taking Chapman Freeborn South Africa from strength to strength.

“My goal is for us ultimately to be the leading charter provider in the IMEA region.” 

Jenny van Wyk

Jenny started her aviation journey in 2003 as Ground Crew, before becoming Guest Relations & Public Relations Manager. She joined Chapman Freeborn over 8 years ago and is particularly proud of the charters that are truly meaningful for her clients.

“One of the most important charters I’ve been a part of was evacuating hundreds of people out of West Africa when Ebola hit. There were many evacuation flights, and we ensured everyone got home safely.”

Tristan Caldeira

Tristan’s first roles in aviation were as Cargo Service Agent and Operations Supervisor, before he joined the business in 2016. Every day he focuses on finding and creating tailormade solutions to best meet each client’s needs, working in collaboration with them to ensure they’re satisfied every step of the way.

“I love the fast-paced environment we are in, and the fact that we have to think outside of the box. No two days are the same, and there’s always something new to learn.”

Theon Pretorius

Theon’s background is in humanitarian and military aviation, and he joined Chapman Freeborn after realising his path was in brokering. In his short time with the business he has already worked on projects involving humanitarian food resources and the transportation of construction parts.

“I had the opportunity from a young age to meet pilots and crew and hop around on military family flights. I originally wanted to join the South African Air Force as a pilot, however found my passion in the behind-the-scenes operations with brokering and making flight arrangements happen”

Jenna Woods

Jenna has 17 years’ experience in the aviation industry, having worked in Guest Relations, operations and private charter before joining Chapman Freeborn. She enjoys focusing on building relationships with clients and operators, using her years of flight planning expertise to help move the company further into the African market.

“I enjoy finding the best rates for our clients. One of the most exciting things for me is the destinations we are quoting for, and the travel opportunities that will come up.”

Chapman Freeborn IMEA Regional Director, Sharon Vaz-Arab, said, “We are delighted to welcome Jenna and Theon to Chapman Freeborn. Their varied and extensive experience in the aviation industry is integral to our growth and development. Together with Gerhard, Jenny and Tristan we have a brilliant team full of energy and passion that will take Chapman Freeborn South Africa to new heights.”