Search and rescue teams have located a second missing aircraft in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, following reports that two light aircraft went missing in the region on Wednesday afternoon.
According to the Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre (ARCC), a MayDay distress call was received from one of the aircraft, prompting an immediate response.
Fatal injuries
“We immediately alerted search and rescue teams in KZN to activate a search and rescue operation,” said Gregory Critchley, ARCC Chief of Operations.
Shortly after the alert, one of the aircraft was found in Howick.
Tragically, the pilot and sole occupant was confirmed to have suffered fatal injuries, Critchley confirmed.
The Accidents and Incidents Investigations Division, part of the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA), has since launched an official investigation.
Preliminary findings indicate the aircraft had departed from Secunda Airport in Mpumalanga, en route to Margate Airport on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast.
A preliminary report is expected to be released within 30 days, in line with aviation safety protocols.
Condolences
Meanwhile, around 07:20 on Thursday, the MEC for Transport and Human Settlements in KwaZulu-Natalthe confirmed that the Aeronautical Search and Rescue Co-ordination Centre and the SAPS Search and Rescue Unit indicated that they have found the second aircraft.
Unfortunately the second pilot suffered fatal injuries.
Authorities have not yet confirmed its model, route, or the number of occupants on board.
Condolences are extended to the families of the two pilots.
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