Investigations expected following Hout Bay helicopter crash

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has expressed concern following a helicopter incident involving Kishugu Aviation during wildfire suppression efforts in Hout Bay.

According to the department, the incident occurred on Wednesday, when a helicopter operated by the service provider was involved in an accident while conducting firefighting operations in the area. The pilot survived the incident and received medical attention.

DFFE clarified that although it has a five-year contract with the Kishugu Joint Venture to implement its Working on Fire Programme, the aircraft involved in the incident was not operating under this agreement at the time. Instead, the helicopter had been deployed under a separate contractual arrangement.

“The aircraft was operating under a contract with South African National Parks (SANParks).” added the DFFE in a statement.

The department confirmed that the helicopter was operating under a contract with South African National Parks (SANParks) and was engaged in wildfire suppression efforts within the Hout Bay area.

Further details from the service provider indicate that the pilot was able to exit the aircraft without assistance, reach safety, and was subsequently transported to the hospital for medical evaluation.

SANParks also confirmed the incident, stating that a helicopter operating on the slopes of Hout Bay in Table Mountain National Park at the time of the accident. The agency noted that the pilot is safe but said investigations are still underway to determine the cause of the incident.

“DFFE wishes the pilot a speedy recovery and commends all firefighting and emergency personnel involved in the wildfire suppression efforts.”

Authorities, including aviation and law enforcement bodies, are expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. Members of the public have been urged to avoid affected areas to allow emergency services to continue their work without disruption.