Durban’s famous North Beach has been closed to the public following a devastating plane crash that left a veteran pilot missing and triggered a major rescue effort.
Aircraft Plunges Into Sea During Final Display
The incident occurred just before 14:00 on Thursday, 14 August, when the ZS-AEC Extra 300 aircraft, performing its final manoeuvre at an airshow, crashed into the ocean in full view of shocked onlookers.
Emergency Response Launched
Beachgoers alerted emergency services immediately after witnessing the crash. Rescue teams were swiftly dispatched to the scene to begin search operations.
Veteran Pilot Still Missing
KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda confirmed that the 61-year-old pilot was performing an aerial demonstration when the aircraft went down.
Wreckage Recovered, Search Intensifies
Police Search and Rescue units, along with private teams, have recovered parts of the wreckage. The hunt for the missing pilot continues.
Multiple Agencies Involved
The search operation is being led by Police Search and Rescue divers, with assistance from the Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre (ARCC), the Accident and Incident Investigation Division (AIID), and national aviation bodies.
Formal Investigation Underway
The AIID has initiated a full investigation. Civil Aviation Authority spokesperson Sisa Majola stated that updates will be released as more details emerge.
Municipality Cordons Off Area
The eThekwini Municipality has sealed off North Beach, urging residents and visitors to keep away until operations conclude. “Public safety is our top priority,” city officials stressed.
Other Durban Beaches Closed Due to Water Quality
Several other beaches remain closed for swimming because of poor water quality. These include:
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Reunion
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Westbrook
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Anstey’s Beach
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Doonside Beach
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Winklespruit