Ongoing search for missing pilot Andrew Blackwood-Murray after tragic Durban aircraft crash

The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) has confirmed that the investigation into the tragic plane crash that occurred off the Durban coastline is continuing, with 61-year-old pilot Andrew Blackwood-Murray still missing. 

Blackwood-Murray was part of an airshow linked to the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals Global Summit 2025, hosted at Virginia Airport.

The accident occurred just before 2pm, when the ZS-AEC Extra 300 aircraft that was performing its final display crashed into the sea.

On Friday, Sisa Majola, spokesperson for the SACAA, expressed sorrow over the incident, revealing that the Accident and Incident Investigations Division (AIID) was promptly on the scene to initiate an investigation.

The Director of Civil Aviation, Poppy Khoza, stated that the focus remains on the ongoing mission to find Blackwood-Murray.

“We are saddened by the incident and are keeping the pilot, family and friends in our thoughts as rescue efforts continue," she said.

"Our focus now is on the mission currently unfolding, appreciating the efforts of the teams on the ground and wishing them strength as they continue with the mission."

Following the crash on Thursday, eThekwini Municipality announced the closure of Battery Beach as the search continues.

Tributes

Taking to social media, many of Blackwood-Murray's friends shared tributes, describing him as a "world-class pilot and true gentleman".

John Walland shared that the 61-year-old was a warm and passionate man whose skills touched so many lives.

"Andrew, your spirit will forever soar in the skies you loved," he said.

Tributes were also shared on Blackwood-Murray's last Facebook post.

"Gonna miss you. A gentleman, an amazing pilot. Andrew was always willing to chat, no matter how busy he was. He will certainly leave a gap in the airshow display calendar," shared Venessa Richardson.

"My heart bleeds Andrew. You were such a gentleman. I’m glad I had the pleasure of sharing a classroom with you as part of the Airways April intake," added Ryan Douwie.

sinenhlanhla.masilela@iol.co.za

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