Search for missing pilot after tragic crash at Durban North airshow
Authorities are on the scene where a plane crashed into the sea on Thursday afternoon
Image: ALS Paramedics
A light aircraft participating in an airshow at Durban North crashed into the ocean on Thursday afternoon, prompting a large-scale search for the missing pilot.
The Accident and Incident Investigations Division (AIID) confirmed the incident, which occurred near Suncoast Casino at approximately 13:45.
“The accident occurred at approximately 13:45 when the ZS-AEC Extra 300 aircraft that was performing its final display crashed into the sea,” the AIID said in a media statement. “The Emergency Medical Services and law enforcement immediately attended to the scene. The AIID will provide updates as soon as further information is available.”
ALS Paramedics reported that emergency personnel, including SAPS, Symmetry Police Search and Rescue Units, the T25 department, and the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), were deployed.
“NSRI and lifeguards are currently at the site, and paramedics are standing by on the shoreline for medical assistance; further updates to follow,” ALS Paramedics stated.
“The SAPS helicopter, together with lifesavers and NSRI boats, is on the water trying to locate the missing pilot. Lifesavers are also on the water. All necessary authorities are in attendance; however, the pilot has not been found as yet. Further updates to follow,” ALS Paramedics said.
The crash happened during the airshow segment of the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals Summit, hosted at the Durban International Convention Centre this week. The summit, which began earlier in the week, is the third annual global meeting organised by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA).
Authorities have not yet released details on the cause of the crash or the identity of the pilot.