A light aircraft that went missing on Sunday, 8 June 2025, has been found crashed near Mooi River in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), bringing a tragic end to the search for the three people on board. Among the deceased is Nqobile Biyela, a promising young female student pilot. The discovery has prompted an official investigation by the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) Accident and Incident Investigation Division (AIID) and the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA).
The aircraft, a Piper Cherokee with registration ZS-KFB, departed from Virginia Airport in Durban at approximately 3:00 PM. It was last tracked flying over Ladysmith, heading south towards either Pietermaritzburg or Greytown, before contact was lost. The intended destination was reportedly Ladysmith, but the aircraft diverted to Greytown because it became too dark to land.
KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma has expressed his deepest condolences to the families of the deceased. He acknowledged the devastating loss of Nqobile Biyela, describing her as a young, great leader with a promising career in the aviation industry. Duma stated that his office and Ayanda Msweli, a leading traffic anchor, are in contact with Nqobile Biyela's mother, Zama Biyela, during this incredibly difficult time.
The search and rescue operation, coordinated by the Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre (ARCC), involved a multi-agency effort. Teams from SAPS Search and Rescue, Fire and Rescue Okhahlamba, KZN Emergency Medical Services (EMS), ER24, Netcare911, Hamnet, Berg Flying, the Greytown G911 Umboti Community Services, MTN, and other volunteer organisations and private entities participated in the search. Duma commended these teams for their efficiency and professionalism under challenging circumstances.
According to the AIID, the aircraft was part of a formation of three planes en route from Virginia Airport in Durban to Wonderboom Airport in Pretoria, with a planned refuelling stop at Ladysmith Airport. However, due to the lack of night landing facilities at Ladysmith, the aircraft diverted to Greytown Airport.
The Department of Transport has confirmed it is working to locate and support the families of the other two victims. Ndabezinhle Sibiya, a spokesperson for the Transport Department, said that they are communicating with Zama Biyela, the mother of Nqobile Biyela.
The AIID has deployed investigators to both crash sites to gather evidence. A preliminary report is expected to be published on the SACAA website within 30 days. The investigation will focus on determining the cause of the crash, with authorities considering all potential factors, including weather conditions. Some reports suggest severe weather patterns in the province may have been a contributing factor.
This incident has prompted renewed focus on aviation safety in KwaZulu-Natal. MEC Siboniso Duma highlighted ongoing efforts to improve safety at regional airports, including Margate, Oribi, Umkhuze, Richards Bay, and Virginia Airport. He said that the department is harmonising its efforts with the SACAA, Airports Company South Africa, and the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs to ensure safer skies.
The loss of Nqobile Biyela, a young woman with a promising future in aviation, has deeply affected the community. The incident serves as a reminder of the risks involved in aviation and the importance of stringent safety measures. As the investigation unfolds, the families of the deceased are in the thoughts of many South Africans, hoping for answers and closure in the wake of this tragic event.
The public is urged to contact the ARCC at 063 505 4164 or 063 505 5485 with any information that may be relevant to the investigation.
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