During the West Coast Air Show in Saldanha, South Africa, a plane performing a demonstration flight lost control and crashed. An experienced pilot died. This is reported by Sky News with reference to the organizers of the event, reports UNN.
Details
It is noted that the incident occurred on Saturday, March 22, 110 km north of Cape Town. During a demonstration flight on an Impala Mark 1 aircraft, pilot James O'Connell, an experienced aircraft test pilot, performed maneuvers as part of the official show program in front of thousands of spectators.
Mr. O'Connell was performing a routine performance that was intended to demonstrate the capabilities of the Impala Mark 1 aircraft - a beloved warbird that has deep historical significance for many South Africans. This was a particularly important moment, as the "Impala" has not been seen at air shows for many years
According to eyewitnesses, the plane appeared to be completely under control for most of the flight, but during one of the final maneuvers, it suddenly lost altitude and began to fall rapidly to the ground.
The organizers noted that no signs of an attempt to eject were recorded. There were no other casualties as a result of the accident.
According to Elowaine Haus, director of West Coast Medical Rescue, medics arrived at the scene in less than two minutes and found the wreckage of the plane completely engulfed in flames.
The South African Civil Aviation Authority is currently investigating the cause of the incident.
Let us remind you
On March 17, a plane crashed off the coast of Honduras, killing seven people, including musician Aurelio Martinez. There were 17 people on board, 10 of whom were rescued.
