A horrific accident occurred at the West Coast Air Show in South Africa. During the event, an Impala Mark 1 aircraft lost control and crashed, resulting in the death of pilot James O’Connell.

The incident took place at an airshow in the town of Saldanha, approximately 112 kilometres north of Cape Town. Footage of the crash shows the aircraft entering a steep dive before erupting into a massive explosion. Eyewitnesses reported that the plane remained under control for most of the display but experienced a sudden loss of altitude during its final manoeuvres.

Emergency Teams Responded Immediately

West Coast Medical Rescue Director Elowayne Gouws stated that rescue teams reached the wreckage swiftly, but the aircraft was completely engulfed in flames within two minutes. Event organisers mentioned that there was no indication that O’Connell had attempted to use the ejection seat. No injuries other than the pilot’s fatality were reported.

36 Years of Experience, Over 5,600 Flight Hours

James O’Connell was a retired officer with more than 36 years of service in the South African Air Force, having achieved numerous accolades throughout his career. According to the event’s organising committee, O’Connell had amassed over 4,000 hours in rotary-wing aircraft and more than 1,600 hours in fixed-wing aircraft.

At the airshow, he was showcasing the capabilities of the Impala Mark 1, a historically significant aircraft for South Africa.

Investigation Launched

The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) and the South African Air Force accident investigation unit have launched a thorough inquiry into the incident. SACAA Communications Director Sisa Majola confirmed the fatality and stated that the investigation is being conducted meticulously.