KwaZulu-Natal: KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC, Siboniso Duma, has extended condolences to the families and friends of three individuals who lost their lives in a light aircraft crash. The aircraft went missing on Sunday afternoon.
According to South African Government News Agency, the Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre (ARCC) reported that the aircraft departed from Virginia Airport on 8 June 2025 at approximately 3pm. It failed to reach its intended alternate destination and was last tracked flying over Ladysmith, heading south toward Pietermaritzburg or Greytown.
In a statement issued on Monday, Duma confirmed that the ARCC had informed the department about the passing of the three passengers aboard the aircraft. The case has been handed over to the South African Police Service’s Accident and Incident Investigation Division and the South African Civil Aviation Authority for an official investigation.
Duma expressed condolences to the families of the deceased passengers, particularly mentioning Zama Biyela, the mother of the late student pilot Nqobile Biyela. He acknowledged the difficulty of the situation for her and the entire family, noting the loss of a promising young leader in the aviation industry.
Officials from Duma’s office, along with traffic anchor Ayanda Msweli, are providing support to the Biyela family and are working to offer condolences to other affected families. The MEC commended the search and rescue teams for their efficiency in the operation, highlighting the contributions of various organizations.
Duma also mentioned that in April, the Department of Transport announced plans for the aviation industry, guided by regulations such as the Economic Regulations for Transport Act. Plans are underway to upgrade several airports, including Margate, Oribi, Umkhuze, Richards Bay, and Virginia Airport. The department is coordinating with relevant agencies to harmonize efforts in the aviation sector.