Rescue teams have temporarily suspended the search for a missing pilot whose aircraft crashed into the ocean off Durban’s North Beach during an airshow on Thursday.
The light aircraft went down shortly after 2pm during its final display at the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals Global Summit. Emergency services, including paramedics, police search and rescue teams, and the National Sea Rescue Institute, rushed to the scene. Parts of the wreckage were later recovered from the water.
Despite hours of effort from multiple agencies and volunteers, the pilot has not yet been found. The search is expected to resume on Friday morning, with teams hoping calmer conditions will aid their efforts.
As a safety precaution, Battery Beach was closed to allow search teams to operate without interference. Authorities say they will continue to monitor the situation and share updates with the public.
This remains a developing story, and the focus now is on bringing closure to the pilot’s loved ones and the aviation community.