Incident Overview
Test pilot James O'Connell died in a crash during the Coast Air Show in Saldanha, , when his Impala Mark 1 aircraft unexpectedly went into a deep dive and crashed.
Thousands of spectators witnessed the accident on Saturday afternoon, with the aircraft crashing in a grassy area and engulfed in flames, leaving no ground injuries reported.
Investigation and Response
The and Air Show South Africa have launched an investigation into the crash, with preliminary accounts noting a sudden loss of altitude before the crash.
Organizers and officials expressed profound sadness and extended condolences to O'Connell's family, emphasizing the pilot's skill and the aircraft's historical significance to South Africa.