Hout bay: The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has expressed concern over a helicopter incident at a fire site on the slopes of Hout Bay in Table Mountain National Park. However, the department has clarified that this incident is not connected to its contractual operations.
According to South African Government News Agency, the helicopter involved belonged to Kishugu Aviation and the incident occurred on Wednesday, prompting an emergency medical response and the activation of Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR). Fortunately, the pilot was reported to be safe.
In a statement released on Thursday, the department elaborated on its existing five-year agreement with the Kishugu Joint Venture, which includes Kishugu Aviation, to implement its Working on Fire Programme. This programme provides essential aerial support for firefighting operations on land managed by the DFFE, and it also assists in responding to community fire incidents when necessary.
The department emphasized that the helicopter incident, which took place on 25 March 2026, was outside the scope of this agreement. At the time of the incident, the helicopter was deployed under a separate contract and was not performing duties for the DFFE. Instead, the aircraft was operating under a contract with South African National Parks (SANParks).
The department has extended well wishes to the pilot for a speedy recovery and commended all firefighting and emergency personnel involved in the wildfire suppression efforts. It also noted that aviation and law enforcement authorities are expected to conduct an investigation into the incident. According to the service provider's initial report, the pilot was able to exit the aircraft unaided, reach safety, and was subsequently transported to the hospital for medical evaluation.