The search for the pilot of a light aircraft that crashed into the ocean off Pirate Beach, near Suncoast, has now entered its second week, with emergency services maintaining a shoreline presence while the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) and SAPS divers continue operations at sea.
The aircraft, an Extra 300, went down during the South African Civil Aviation Authority’s (SACAA) school exhibition display on Thursday last week. The incident, witnessed by shocked spectators, was part of the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals Global Summit 2025 hosted at Virginia Airport.
ALS Paramedics spokesperson Garrith Jamieson said rescue teams have remained on standby since the crash, ready to respond should the pilot be located. “Emergency personnel have been stationed along the shore daily while the NSRI, supported by SAPS divers and an SAPS helicopter, conduct systematic searches of the ocean,” he confirmed.
Despite extensive efforts—including aerial sweeps and the deployment of boats and divers—there has been no breakthrough in locating the pilot. Authorities say the cause of the crash is still under investigation, with the Accident and Incident Investigations Division of the SACAA leading the inquiry.
EThekwini Municipality has kept Pirate Beach closed to the public since the accident. Spokesperson Gugu Sisilana said officials are closely monitoring developments. “We will continue to work with the relevant authorities and provide updates as soon as there is progress,” she said.
Rescue teams have urged members of the public to remain patient and stay away from the restricted zone to allow operations to continue safely.
