Durban Suncoast Beach Plane Crash | Search and Rescue Underway for Missing Pilot

Durban, KwaZulu-Natal – Search and rescue teams are currently scouring the waters off Suncoast Beach after a light aircraft crashed into the ocean on Thursday afternoon. Emergency services, paramedics, and law enforcement personnel remain on-site as efforts to locate the pilot continue.

Aircraft Crash During Aerial Display

According to ALS Paramedics spokesperson Gareth Jamieson, a video circulating on social media captured the small plane performing aerial manoeuvres before losing control and crashing into the surf near Virginia Airport, a short distance from the beachfront.

“Our teams are on-site and paramedics are standing by for any required medical intervention,” Jamieson said.

Initial reports indicate the aircraft had been performing display manoeuvres when it plunged into the ocean. The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), with support from local lifeguards, immediately launched search operations.

READ: Search for Missing Pilot Resumes After Durban Airshow Crash |

Wreckage Recovered, Pilot Still Missing

While much of the aircraft wreckage has been recovered, the pilot remains unaccounted for. Authorities have now shifted focus from immediate rescue to potential recovery operations, pending further developments.

The crash site is located near Suncoast Casino, one of Durban’s busiest beachfront areas, close to uShaka Marine World and the city’s harbour. Rescue vessels have been seen patrolling the waters as darkness approached.

Authorities Monitoring Situation

KwaZulu-Natal officials, including the MEC for Transport, have been briefed on the situation. Updates are expected once the search and recovery operations conclude. Emergency services continue to urge the public to avoid the area for safety reasons.

This remains a developing story, and more details will be released as they become available.