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- A small plane, with two occupants, crashed shortly after takeoff in KwaZulu-Natal on Saturday.
- Both occupants were fatally injured at Eva’s Field, an airstrip at Hilton.
- The South African Civil Aviation Authority has launched an investigation.
An investigation was launched after two people were killed when a small plane crashed shortly after takeoff in Hilton, KwaZulu-Natal, on Saturday.
In a statement, the South African Civil Aviation Authority said investigators were dispatched to gather information that would help establish the cause of the fatal crash.
South African Civil Aviation Authority spokesman Kabelo Ledwaba said initial reports indicated that the aircraft, a light sports aircraft called the Bushbaby, crashed moments after takeoff, fatally injuring both occupants.
The plane had taken off from Eva’s Field, an airstrip in Hilton, and was heading for Umkomaas airfield, located on the south coast.
“The evidence gathering phase, which has already begun and will continue at the site, will define the size and scope of the investigation, as well as the expected time frame for the completion of a final accident investigation report,” Ledwaba said.
“It is vital to note that investigations can vary in complexity and can sometimes take a little time to complete.”
“However, if a critical safety issue is identified during the course of the investigation, the investigation team will immediately notify the relevant parties so that appropriate action can be taken.”
Ledwaba added that a preliminary report will be issued within 30 days and that in cases where an investigation takes more than 12 months to complete, the investigation team will issue an interim statement to indicate the progress made at that particular time.
“The completion of an investigation is marked by the publication of a final accident report, which often contains safety recommendations aimed at improving aviation safety levels and preventing a similar accident.”
