Polokwane light aircraft crash: Pilot succumbs to injuries
The 70-year-old pilot sustained third degree burn wounds during the incident and succumbed to his injuries in hospital a day later.
POLOKWANE – The 70-year-old pilot who was involved in a light aircraft crash at the Polokwane Civil Aerodrome has succumbed to his injuries.
The accident occurred on Wednesday afternoon and according to SA Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) Spokesperson, Kabelo Ledwaba the aircraft crashed shortly after take-off.
The pilot sustained severe burn wounds during a post-impact fire and was rushed to a local hospital for medical treatment.
He passed away in hospital on Thursday afternoon, Police Spokesperson, Brig Motlafela Mojapelo confirmed to Review on Friday morning.
27 May
Investigation into light aircraft crash in Polokwane underway
POLOKWANE – The SA Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) on Thursday morning confirmed to Review that an investigation is underway into the aircraft crash which happened on the outskirts of the city on Thursday afternoon.
The incident, which happened at the Polokwane civil airport, left the pilot in a critical condition after he sustained severe burn wounds.
According to SACAA Spokesperson, Kabelo Ledwaba the incident involved a Bushbaby, a light sports aircraft. “The accident occurred just after take-off on the outside perimeter of the aerodrome. The aircraft was destroyed by a post-impact fire and the pilot was the only person onboard the aircraft,” he explained.
He added that the last point of departure and point of intended landing was the Polokwane Civil Aerodrome.
“The Accident and Incident Investigations Division has begun the process of investigating the cause of the accident and a preliminary report will be issued within 30 days from the day of the accident,” Kabelo said.
Police Spokesperson, Brig Motlafela Mojapelo confirmed that the incident happened at around 17:00. “The pilot, a 70-year-old man, sustained third degree burn wounds and is in a critical condition in a local hospital.”
26 May
POLOKWANE – Emergency Medical Services are currently responding to an incident after a helicopter crashed in a field along the Silicon road.
EMS personnel on the scene have confirmed to Polokwane Review that a man has been rushed to hospital after the helicopter crashed and caught fire.
Police and traffic officials are on the scene.
This is a developing story and more information will be given once it becomes available.
