A pilot and two passengers narrowly escaped with their lives when the light aircraft they were flying in crash-landed in Algoa Park on Thursday.
The pilot attempted a safe landing but instead veered into a pole.
The aircraft then split into a few pieces on impact.
Curious onlookers formed a wide circle around the wreckage as they chatted among themselves.
Police spokesperson Captain Andre Beetge said a light aircraft on its way to the airport in Gqeberha from the Northern Cape, was forced to make an emergency landing at about 4pm.
“The 75-year-old male pilot said the aircraft was low on fuel and he was forced to make an emergency landing in Ysterhout Street, Algoa Park.
“Unfortunately, a pothole and speedbump in the road caused the aircraft to swerve and hit a lamp post.
“The aircraft wings and tail section were damaged in the incident.
“No injuries were reported by the pilot and his two passengers — two men aged 33 and 43 — and no pedestrians or other traffic on the road were affected by the landing incident.
“After the scene was declared safe by the fire department, the aircraft was released to its owner to be salvaged.”
The Accident and Incident Investigations Division (AIID) said in a statement it had been notified of the accident involving a PIPER PA-32RT in Gqeberha.
According to information gathered from first responders, the Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre, the pilot established communication with the Gqeberha tower frequency during approach where the aircraft was reported being low on fuel.
“Soon after, communication between the pilot and the air traffic controllers was lost with this likely due to an engine stoppage,” the AIID said.
“The AIID will issue a preliminary report in 30 days from the day of the accident.”
HeraldLIVE
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