Comet Aviation Supplies & ROTAX: A Partnership Built to Last
Some partnerships stand the test of time.
For 38 years, Comet Aviation Supplies has proudly supported the Southern African aviation community as an authorised ROTAX distributor, supplying engines, parts, technical support and expertise to aircraft owners, flight schools, manufacturers and maintenance organisations throughout the region.
What started as a small business focused on supplying ROTAX products to the growing microlight market has evolved into one of Southern Africa’s most recognised aviation suppliers, while maintaining a close relationship with the brand that helped shape the journey: ROTAX.
Where It All Began
The story starts in 1987 when Mike Blythe founded a business known as Freestar Props, supplying ROTAX two-stroke engines and spare parts to the emerging recreational aviation industry.
As demand grew, so did the business.
In 1988, the company became Microlight Engines & Accessories, reflecting its expanding role within the light aviation market.
A year later, in 1989, Niren Chotoki joined the business, helping lay the foundations for what would become a long-standing aviation success story.
Growing Alongside ROTAX
The 1990s saw rapid growth in recreational and light aircraft aviation across Southern Africa, and ROTAX engines quickly established themselves as a preferred powerplant choice for aircraft manufacturers and pilots alike.
In 1997, the business adopted a new name: Aviation Engines & Accessories.
By this stage, the company was supplying the popular ROTAX 912 series engines while continuing to broaden its range of aviation products and services.
As the aviation industry evolved, so did the business.
The Birth of Comet Aviation Supplies
In 2008, the company acquired dealership rights for a number of leading international aviation brands.
With its growing product offering extending beyond engines and engine spares, the business adopted the trading name that pilots across Southern Africa know today:
Comet Aviation Supplies.
The new name reflected a broader vision while continuing to build on decades of experience supporting the aviation industry.
Supporting Aviation Across Southern Africa
Today, Comet Aviation Supplies continues to play an active role in the light aircraft industry throughout the region.
Working closely with aircraft manufacturers, flight schools, maintenance organisations and a wide network of repair centres, Comet remains committed to ensuring pilots have access to genuine ROTAX products, technical support and dependable service.
From the earliest two-stroke engines to today’s advanced four-stroke powerplants, Comet has been there every step of the journey.
Looking Ahead
The latest chapter in the ROTAX story is the powerful and innovative ROTAX 916 iS, bringing a new level of performance and capability to modern aircraft.
While aviation technology continues to evolve, one thing remains unchanged:
Comet Aviation Supplies’ commitment to supporting the pilots, aircraft owners and aviation professionals who rely on ROTAX engines every day.
38 Years as an Authorised ROTAX Distributor in Southern Africa
A partnership built on trust.
A partnership built on aviation.
A partnership made in heaven.
ROTAX & Comet Aviation Supplies.
