Light aircraft plunges into ocean near Sun Coast beachfront

JOHANNESBURG - Emergency Management Services (EMS) teams are responding to a light aircraft crash in Durban.

In viral video footage circulating on social media, the incident was captured as it occurred, and the aircraft can be seen crashing into the ocean near the Sun Coast beachfront.

Details remain sketchy at this stage; however, ALS Paramedics spokesperson Garrith Jameson said a full search-and-rescue operation is underway.

“Initial reports are that the light aircraft was doing displays and crashed into the ocean. NSRI [National Sea Rescue Institute] and life guards are currently at the site, and paramedics are standing by on the shoreline for medical assistance.”

He further said it is unclear if there was another person in the plane.

“The SAPS (South African Police Service) helicopter, together with life savers and NSRI boats on the water, trying to locate the missing pilot. All necessary authorities are in attendance; however, the pilot has not been found as yet. “