Pilot Dies After Plane Crash At South Africa's West Coast Air Show
- A tragic plane crash at South Africa's West Coast Air Show claimed the life of pilot James O'Connell, whose Impala Mark 1 aircraft spiralled out of control and plummeted to the ground
- The accident occurred during a routine display, with eyewitnesses reporting a sudden loss of altitude during one of the final manoeuvres
- Emergency responders arrived swiftly, but the wreckage was engulfed in flames, leaving no chance of survival
South Africa – A tragic incident occurred at the West Coast Air Show in Saldanha, approximately 70 miles (110 km) north of Cape Town, when a plane spiralled out of control and crashed on March 22, 2025.
Video footage captured the aircraft spinning mid-air before plummeting to the ground. The pilot, identified as James O'Connell, lost his life during the routine display, according to a statement shared by the event organisers.
See the video below:
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Impala Mark 1 demonstration ends in disaster
James O'Connell, described as a highly skilled and respected test pilot, was performing a display featuring the Impala Mark 1, a warbird with significant historical value in South Africa.
Organisers noted that the Impala had not been featured in air shows for many years, making this demonstration particularly special.
Eyewitness accounts reported that the aircraft remained under control for most of the performance. However, during a final manoeuvre, the plane experienced a sudden loss of altitude, entered a steep dive, and crashed to the ground.
There was no indication that O'Connell attempted to eject from the aircraft.
Immediate response and statement from organisers
The organisers expressed profound sadness over the loss of James O'Connell, extending their sympathies to his family, loved ones, and all those affected by the tragedy.
Elowayne Gouws, director of West Coast Medical Rescue, revealed that medics arrived at the crash site within two minutes but found the wreckage engulfed in flames.
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Fortunately, no other injuries were reported during the air show.
About airshow
An air show is a public event where pilots showcase their skills through aerial performances, often using aerobatic manoeuvres, vintage aircraft, or cutting-edge aviation technology.
These events celebrate the art and science of aviation, drawing spectators with dynamic displays of precision flying and teamwork.
Air shows also provide a platform to honour aviation history, educate the public, and inspire future generations of aviators.
About South Africa
South Africa, located at the southernmost tip of the African continent, is renowned for its rich cultural diversity and stunning landscapes.
It is nicknamed the "Rainbow Nation" due to its blend of ethnic groups, languages, and traditions. With landmarks like Table Mountain, Kruger National Park, and Robben Island, it’s a country steeped in natural beauty and historical significance.
Pilot speaks on how he cheated death
Legit.ng earlier reported that Matthew Carpenter, the pilot of a plane that crashed near the Canadian town of Faro, Yukon, has spoken about how he tried to prevent the crash.
Legit.ng recalls that on Sunday, January 26, 2025, a small aircraft crashed near Faro.
According to Yukon News, speaking recently to the News on the crash, Carpenter expressed gratitude for the United States (US) military from Anchorage, Alaska and Canadian search-and-rescue teams that rescued him and his passenger.
