DURBAN - An extensive sea and air search is underway off Durban North Beach after a light aircraft ditched in the ocean during an air show on Thursday afternoon, just before 14:00.
The 61-year-old male pilot from Johannesburg, who was flying solo, remains missing. The incident occurred about half a nautical mile offshore.
Three NSRI rescue craft are assisting at the scene, providing a platform for Police Search and Rescue divers and Metro Police divers who are conducting scuba searches. Onshore, NSRI Durban crews, rescue coordinators, eThekwini Municipal lifeguards, paramedics from Netcare 911 and ALS, eThekwini Fire and Rescue Services, and members of the South African Police Service are involved in the operation. A police helicopter is also aiding the search.
The operation is being coordinated by the Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre (ARCC) with support from the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC), Transnet National Ports Authority Port Control, Telkom Maritime Radio Services, and the NSRI Emergency Operations Centre.
Two NSRI rescue craft from Durban and Umhlanga were already nearby when the accident occurred and responded immediately. Despite the swift reaction and ongoing efforts, there has been no sign of the pilot.
Police and the Accident and Incident Investigations Division (AIID) will conduct investigations into the incident.
Authorities have extended their condolences to the pilot’s family and friends during this difficult time.