Tony Petter-Boyer took his final flight on 12 April 2025. A longstanding supporter of the Zimbabwe Air Rally, Tony’s presence extended beyond participation—he was the unofficial bard of the skies, penning witty poetry that brought wry smiles to many and often featured rally regulars by name.
In 2018, already facing health challenges, Tony wrote a heartfelt farewell poem to the Rally and those involved, packed with clever references to Master Switches and the search for a mysterious “Pomp”—a page-long tribute filled with humour and nostalgia.
Despite those challenges, Tony made the monumental effort to attend the landmark 50th edition of the Air Rally in 2024—an occasion that brought together generations of aviators and enthusiasts.
Tony’s passing marks the end of an era. His legacy lives on in the spirit of the Rally, in the joy of flying with nothing but an airspeed indicator, a compass, and a map. For many of us newer to the scene, his poems and passion are a reminder of the camaraderie that makes aviation special.
As one verse fittingly puts it:
“He leaves us now / To fly high with aviators long gone / Farewell Tony / May your landings not be stony.” –
—With gratitude, from the Zimbabwe Air Rally community.
