Inkosi Mhlabunzima Maphumulo House: We are in touch with experts and officials from the Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre (ARCC) following the disappearance of a light aircraft carrying three individuals.
Ayanda Msweli, the country’s leading traffic anchor, is in touch with the family of the female pilot that was in the aircraft.
ARCC has informed us that the aircraft, which departed Virginia Airport at around 15h00 on 8 June 2025, failed to reach its alternate destination and was last tracked flying over Ladysmith, heading south towards either Pietermaritzburg or Greytown.
Understanding severe weather patterns as forecast by the SA Weather Services, we have taken a decision to assist ARCC in their search and rescue operations.
In this regard, we wish to announce the following:
1. Head of the Department Siboniso Mbheli is ensuring the co-ordination of KZN Transport Forums in Umgungundlovu and Uthukela districts.
2. Activation of structures and leaders of communities to be part of the search and rescue team in the primary area identified by ARCC.
3. Liaison with the families of the missing pilot and other individuals.
We are working with ARCC, South African Police Service in Greytown and other key experts that will ensure the successful search and rescue operation.
Importantly, as the Department of Transport we announced in April our plans for the aviation industry as guided by many regulations, including the Economic Regulations for Transport Act.
We are involved in serious work in various airports such as Margate, Oribi, Umkhuze, Richards Bay and Virginia Airport.
We are currently harmonizing our work with relevant departments such as SA Aviation Authority, Airport Company of South Africa, Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs
From Greytown, Ladysmith & Newcastle
Plane details:
Pyper Cherokee
REGISTRATION: ZSKFB
BLUE, BLACK AND WHITE in color
3 PASSENGERS ON BOARD
No communications since last night.
Search and rescue units already dispatched and looking.
Please contact Morné on 0834177454