KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC, Siboniso Duma, has extended condolences to the families and friends of three people who passed away when a light aircraft crashed after it went missing on Sunday afternoon.
According to information from the Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre (ARCC), the aircraft departed from Virginia Airport on 8 June 2025 at approximately 3pm but failed to reach its intended alternate destination.
The plane was last tracked flying over Ladysmith, heading south toward Pietermaritzburg or Greytown.
In a statement issued on Monday, Duma confirmed that the ARCC informed the department of the passing of three passengers aboard the aircraft.
He said the matter has been handed over to the South African Police Service’s Accident and Incident Investigation Division and the South African Civil Aviation Authority for official investigation.
“We express our deepest condolences to the families of the deceased passengers. In particular, we are in touch with Zama Biyela, the mother of the late student pilot Nqobile Biyela [23]. This is the most difficult period for her and the entire family. Losing such a young great leader with a promising career in the aviation industry, under such circumstances, is not only tragic but devastating,” Duma said.
He added that officials from his office, along with the country’s leading traffic anchor Ayanda Msweli, was providing support to the Biyela family and they would continue to locate other affected families to offer condolences.
The MEC commended the efficiency displayed by the search and rescue teams involved in the operation.
“We wish to single out ARCC, SAPS Search and Rescue, Fire and Rescue Okhahlamba, Search and Rescue Zone Association, KZN Provincial EMS [Emergency Medical Services], Hamnet, ER24, Netcare911, Berg Flying, the Greytown G911 Umboti Community services, MTN, and the Bhanoyi Airfield Estate.”
Duma highlighted that in April this year, the Department of Transport announced its plans for the aviation industry, as guided by many regulations, including the Economic Regulations for Transport Act.
He said plans were underway to upgrade various airports, including Margate, Oribi, Umkhuze, Richards Bay and Virginia Airport.
“We are currently harmonising our work with relevant departments, such as SA Aviation Authority, Airport Company of South Africa, Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs,” Duma said. – SAnews.gov.za
