PILOT DIES AFTER SALDANHA AIR SHOW CRASH
The 2025 West Coast Saldanha Bay Air Show came to an abrupt end when an Impala jet crashed and burst into flames.
The incident happened on Saturday in front of more than 2,000 spectators.
The pilot has been identified as James O’Connell, a highly skilled and respected test pilot.
O’Connell was performing a routine display that was meant to show the capabilities of the Impala Mark 1.
Spectators flocked to the air show, may of them hoping to see the Impala Mark 1 take to the skies. The specific plane hasn’t been seen performing at air shows for many years.
According to eyewitnesses, the plane appeared to be under control during most of the display. But, during one of the final moves, the plane experienced a sudden loss of altitude. It descended into a deep dive before hitting the ground at an immense speed.
The air show ended with immediate effect while spectators were offered medical attention.
Eyewitnesses said the event’s emergency response plan was immediately activated with first responders on the scene within moments of the crash.
Tributes have been pouring in for O’Connell.
Image credit: Sky News
