Durban – A week after his light aircraft crashed into the sea off Durban during an airshow, 61-year-old pilot Andrew Blackwood-Murray remains missing.
The ZS-AEC Extra 300 went down just before 2 pm while performing its final display, with video showing the plane looping before plunging into the ocean.
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) is leading the search, supported by private companies and recreational divers, using advanced technology and scuba diving operations.
Another video: https://t.co/YYNo5GdJmR pic.twitter.com/abV8GzbL3E
— Yusuf Abramjee (@Abramjee) August 14, 2025
“Advanced technology and advanced search technology continue to be deployed in the ongoing search. Weather and sea conditions have not been a factor and have not hampered ongoing search efforts,” NSRI said.
The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) confirmed that the investigation, led by the Air Accident and Incident Investigation Directorate (AIID), is ongoing, with focus on both the rescue mission and determining the cause of the crash.
The SACAA is saddened by the incident at the airshow in Durban.
Read the media statement on our website: https://t.co/6r7d6AlazZ. pic.twitter.com/hpK318guA1
— SA Civil Aviation Authority – SACAA (@OfficialSACAA) August 15, 2025
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
