How We Took Flight: The Untold Story of Our MPG Era

In 1993, under our original name Skylark Promotions, Airvision Aviation achieved something no one else had dared to attempt—securing an Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) for motorised paragliders (MPGs). At the time, it wasn’t just unheard of—it was widely believed to be impossible. Our certification allowed us to operate in controlled airspace, and even fly night displays—something that turned heads in both aviation and paragliding circles.

We quickly established a training school and a core aerial display team of six pilots, expanding the roster for large-scale events. Our official debut? The Royal Easter Show main arena—two weeks, two shows a day, alongside the elite skydiving team. To enable night performances, we engineered custom lighting systems that illuminated canopies bearing sponsor logos. We also pioneered towing systems for 3x5 metre banners, laying the groundwork for the giant helicopter banners we would later develop. One of our biggest early wins was a contract with Foxtel—creating some 45 MPG banners to promote all their channels. By 2000, as CASA approvals came through, we transitioned these campaigns to helicopters, marking the start of a new era.

Throughout the '90s, MPGs became a highlight of major events across Australia and beyond—launching Star City Casino, Fox Studios, and lighting up GP races, the Australian Open, horse racing, Bathurst, and international football games with Manchester United and the Socceroos. We even flew shows in Kuwait for the HALA Festival with a 16-person team. We later secured aerial contracts with the ARL and NRL, flying MPG displays at games all season long, including the State of Origin series.

Ruffling Feathers

Naturally, our success didn’t sit well with everyone. Many in both the aviation and paragliding sectors couldn’t understand how we’d been granted approvals they’d never received. Some even lobbied to have our AOC revoked. But our operations were clean, legal, and meticulously documented. We ticked every box, and kept flying.

An Unwelcome Escort

One unforgettable night in the mid-’90s, we performed a night show at a packed MCG for a Manchester United friendly. Six MPGs flew in tight formations around the towering floodlights, banners fluttering, canopies lit up brilliantly. As I circled the stadium, I glanced to my right—only to find a police helicopter flying right beside me, completely unaware we were in the sky. All ATC approvals were in place. A NOTAM had been issued. But the police aircrew hadn’t checked it. I radioed them, explained the situation, and urged them to clear the airspace immediately before someone got killed. They were stunned. Disbelieving. And gone within seconds. The next day, I received a call from the head of the police air wing, apologising. They admitted the error and expressed disbelief that we had full approval to fly over Melbourne—and at night.

The Final Chapter

For six thrilling years, MPGs took us across the country, performing aerial shows with zero incidents—a 100% safety record I’m incredibly proud of. But by 2000, helicopter banners were ready to take centre stage. The MPG chapter closed as we launched our helicopter banner division globally in Melbourne.

A Final Word of Advice

If you’ve got a dream—make sure it’s grounded. Before you try to change the world, ask yourself honestly: is this a fantasy, or a real, workable idea? Be your own harshest critic. Most ideas fail. Many shouldn’t have left the drawing board. Then, once you’ve done your homework—stop listening to those who say “you can’t.” I’ve taken great satisfaction in proving people wrong, not out of spite, but because their doubt is often rooted in jealousy, fear, or a lack of imagination. Not everything you try will work. But trying still puts you miles ahead of those who never dared. That's the only way you ever do something truly original.

Sohn Herbert.