SKUKUZA – The pilot of a Kruger National Park helicopter managed to execute a safe landing despite an engine failure yesterday.
The helicopter, with three SANParks officials onboard, were searching for two rhinos which broke out of the park west of Orpen Gate.
“A female rhino and her calf were observed outside the park and one of our helicopters was dispatched to locate the animals in order to guide the game capture team on the ground,” Mr Glenn Phillips, Kruger’s managing executive, said.
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The team was still searching for the animals when the helicopter suddenly experienced a power loss and engine failure. The pilot was forced to carry out an immediate emergency landing which he did successfully with no injuries or further damage to the aircraft.
“We are grateful that our employees are all safe and no one was hurt. What’s more, the game capture team managed to recover the animals and ensure their safe return to the park.
“A special commendation goes out to the pilot who, under critical circumstances, managed to land the aircraft safely,” Phillips added.
The helicopter is currently being inspected to determine the cause of the engine failure.
