Johannesburg – An investigation has been launched following a fatal light aircraft crash in the Ferreira, Johannesburg, area earlier on Friday morning.
According to police, the accident occurred on Friday, 2 January 2026, at approximately 10:20, when authorities were alerted to reports of a plane crash.
“Police were dispatched to the scene following reports of a light aircraft accident,” a South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson said.
“Upon arrival, officers found Emergency Medical Services already on site, attending to a male individual who was trapped inside the wreckage.”
The pilot, a 45-year-old man, who is believed to have been the sole occupant of the aircraft, was declared dead at the scene by medical personnel.
Investigation launched after fatal light aircraft crash in Ferreira, Bloemfonteinhttps://t.co/itAV165agO#Arrivelive #PlaneCrash @SAPoliceService pic.twitter.com/gvtMt64Waj
— Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) January 2, 2026
“Sadly, the pilot succumbed to his injuries and was declared deceased on scene,” the spokesperson confirmed.
Police said efforts are currently underway to trace and inform the deceased’s next of kin.
“The identity of the deceased will be withheld until the next of kin have been formally notified,” SAPS said.
The SAPS has opened an inquest docket and will work alongside aviation authorities to determine the cause of the crash.
“The SAPS will be working closely with aviation investigators to establish the technical cause of the accident,” the spokesperson added.
Investigations are ongoing.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
