Durban Beach Closes After Airshow Plane Crash, Pilot Still Missing

DURBAN — 14 August

Authorities shut Durban’s North Beach today after an airshow plane plunged into the ocean mid-performance, leaving its veteran pilot missing and triggering a major search operation.

The ZS-AEC Extra 300 aircraft crashed into the sea just before 14:00 on Thursday during its final display, witnessed by spectators at the event. Emergency services responded after beachgoers reported the incident. (witness accounts)

KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda confirmed the 61-year-old pilot was demonstrating aerial skills when the aircraft went down. (Netshiunda/IOL)

“Police Search and Rescue teams, working together with private counterparts, have recovered some wreckage of the aircraft, and the search for the pilot is ongoing,” Netshiunda stated.

The operation involves Police Search and Rescue divers, the Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre (ARCC), and the Accident and Incident Investigation Division (AIID). Civil Aviation Authority spokesperson Sisa Majola confirmed an investigation is underway. (Majola)

eThekwini Municipality closed North Beach, warning: “The safety of the public remains our top priority, and we urge all beachgoers to avoid the area while operations are underway.”

According to the municipality, several other beaches remain closed for swimming due to poor water quality:
• REUNION
• WESTBROOK
• ANSTEY’S BEACH
• DOONSIDE BEACH
• WINKLESPRUIT