Our story
At Open Air Adventure Flights, we bring history to life in the skies above Bunbury. Founded by Johan and powered by “Winnie” our 1941 Boeing Stearman. We’re here to share the thrill of open-cockpit flying and create unforgettable memories.
We’re Johan and Hayley,
the husband-and-wife team behind Open Air Adventure Flights. Together, we’re bringing history back to life and sharing our love of aviation with the South West community.
Every detail matters
from the paintwork to the finishing touches. Here, Winnie proudly wears her stars, a nod to her WWII heritage and timeless character.
Meet Johan, your pilot.
With thousands of hours in the sky and a lifetime of passion for flying, he’s ready to share the thrill of open-cockpit aviation with you.
Behind every adventure is hard work
care, and a lot of love. From sanding to painting, every part of Winnie’s restoration has been a true family project.
Open Air Adventure Flights was created to bring the golden age of aviation to life in Western Australia.
Founded by Johan and Hayley, Open Air is built on a love of flying, history, and sharing unforgettable experiences. Based at Bunbury Airport, just two hours south of Perth, we’re proud to offer WA’s only vintage open-cockpit adventure flights.
Meet Johan – Pilot & Founder
Johan Strydom has been flying for more than 20 years. Originally from Johannesburg, South Africa, his passion for aviation was sparked by his grandfather’s flying career and nurtured through a lifelong journey across the skies.
After flying as a First Officer for Emirates on the Boeing 777, including critical flights during the pandemic delivering medical supplies, Johan has returned to Australia to share his passion with others. At Open Air, he combines his professional experience with his love of vintage aircraft, bringing history and adventure together in every flight.
Meet Winnie – Our Boeing Stearman
“Winnie” is our beautifully restored 1941 Boeing Stearman biplane. Originally built as a military trainer in WWII, she went on to serve as a crop duster before being carefully preserved in New Zealand. Today, she’s been lovingly refurbished and now calls Bunbury home.
Her name pays tribute to Johan’s great-grandmother, Winifred — born on the very same date as Winnie’s manufacture in 1941. Every detail, from her US roundels to her open cockpit, is a nod to her wartime heritage.
Our Mission
At Open Air, we don’t just fly - we create memories. From quick bursts of adrenaline to once-in-a-lifetime milestone celebrations, our packages are designed to give you more than just a flight. They give you a story to tell, a connection to history, and the thrill of adventure.
Why Bunbury?
Bunbury Airport is the perfect home for Open Air. Just a short drive from the city centre and surrounded by WA’s beautiful coastline, it offers the ideal blend of accessibility and open skies. Whether you’re a local or visiting the South West, your aviation adventure starts here.
Why Winnie?
Our Boeing Stearman, built in 1941, is more than just an aircraft - she’s a piece of history. Once used to train WWII pilots, she’s now restored and ready to give you the same open-cockpit thrill those young cadets once felt.
Why Us?
We’re a small, family-run business with a big passion for aviation. Johan brings 20+ years of flying experience, while Hayley ensures every detail of your journey is memorable. Together, we’re here to share aviation with heart.
Why Now?
After years of dreaming and months of careful refurbishment, Winnie is nearly ready for take-off in Bunbury. With summer skies ahead, there’s no better time to experience the freedom of vintage flying.
Contact us
Flying days coming soon
Open Air Blog posts
Flying High in Bunbury: Connecting Business and Adventure
Open Air Adventure Flights co-founders Johan and Hayley recently caught up with Lorraine, CEO of D32 Business Network, to chat about aviation, entrepreneurship, and launching the D32 Business Network right here in Bunbury. The event brought together passionate local business owners — all sharing ideas, inspiration, and a love for community connection.
Feature in Australian Aviation - 1941 Boeing Stearman trainer returns to WA skies
Earlier this year, Johan was interviewed by Aviation Australia, sharing his journey from Emirates pilot to launching Open Air Adventure Flights in Bunbury. The article highlights his love for aviation, the restoration of our 1941 Boeing Stearman “Winnie,” and our vision to bring vintage flying experiences back to Western Australia.
Winnie’s Journey: From Warbird to Joy Flights in Bunbury
At over 80 years old, our Boeing Stearman Winnie has lived many lives. From her days as a World War II trainer, to long hours dusting crops, to giving joy flights in New Zealand, and now flying over Bunbury - her history is full of adventure, mystery, and resilience.