Mapaballo Borotho

The Department of Transport and Human Settlements in KwaZulu-Natal has launched a coordinated search and rescue operation for a light aircraft that went missing with three individuals on board.
The department is working closely with the Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre (ARCC), the South African Police Service in Greytown, and other aviation and emergency response experts to ensure a comprehensive and effective operation.
According to Ndabezinhle Sibiya, spokesperson for the provincial MEC of Transport and Human Settlements, the aircraft departed from Virginia Airport on Sunday, 8 June 2025, at approximately 15h00 but never reached its intended alternate destination.
It was last tracked flying over Ladysmith, heading south towards either Pietermaritzburg or Greytown.
“Ayanda Msweli, the country’s leading traffic anchor, is in touch with the family of the female pilot who was flying the aircraft,” said Sibiya.
He further stated that severe weather patterns may have contributed to the aircraft’s disappearance.
“In response, the head of the department, Mr. Siboniso Mbheli, is overseeing the activation of KZN Transport Forums in the Umgungundlovu and Uthukela districts. We are also mobilizing local community leaders and structures to assist in the search and rescue efforts in the primary area identified by ARCC,” he added.
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