2 days ago
Missing pilot: Search off Durban coast ongoing since Thursday
The search for missing pilot Andrew Blackwood-Murray has entered its seventh day, with police divers and multiple rescue teams continuing recovery operations off the Durban coastline.
According to The Witness, National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) spokesperson Craig Lambinon said advanced sonar technology is being used to map the seabed debris field in the search area.
A Johannesburg-based survey company, Sea Shadow, volunteered a Norbit Multi Beam Sonar, while local Good Samaritan Peter Jacobs assisted using a Garmin Sport and Recreational System aboard his private craft.
Recovery mission expands
The South African Navy, Durban Underwater Club and Rescue SA divers have joined police in the recovery mission, which is being led by SAPS Search-and-Rescue.
eThekwini Metro Police, municipal authorities and lifeguards remain on alert to collect any wreckage that may wash ashore.
Lambinon appealed to the public and maritime community to report any debris linked to the light aircraft accident to the police, the NSRI Emergency Operations Centre, Durban Radio or Port Control.
'All wreckage recovered is taken into the care of Metro Police at Virginia Airport for the Accident and Incident Investigation Division and police investigation.'
Family supported
Personal belongings found have been returned to the family, who are being supported by authorities, friends and colleagues.
The family has asked for privacy, while the outpouring of support from SAA, the aviation community and the public has been described as 'warmly welcomed'.
Blackwood-Murray was piloting a light aircraft during an air show linked to the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals Global Summit 2025, hosted at Durban ICC, when it crashed into the ocean last Thursday.
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