Young KZN pilot killed during flight training
PLANE CRASH
Leeché Manuel, aged 24, has been described as a dedicated pilot student.
Image: Facebook
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of 24-year-old pilot Leeché Manuel, who lost his life in a plane crash during flight training in Gauteng.
According to reports, the light aircraft crashed in the North West area of Sofasonke.
Manuel, 24, had been taking part in flight training in Johannesburg on Thursday.
"At the time of the accident, Manuel was in the final stages of completing his Instructor training and was on a routine practice flight with his instructor. Both individuals succumbed to their injuries in the crash," the Premier said.
Manuel had been part of the Premier’s Bursary Programme.
"We are devastated by this unimaginable loss. Leeché was not merely a bursary recipient; he was a shining example of the talent, discipline, and determination that our province seeks to nurture. Being on the verge of qualifying as an Instructor is a testament to his commitment and hard work.
"On behalf of the Provincial Government and the people of KwaZulu-Natal, I extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the broader aviation school community," Ntuli said.
In February, Manuel was awarded a bursary by the Premier's office to pursue his Commercial Pilot Licence and Instructor Rating.
Ntuli said Manuel's training journey took him from Pietermaritzburg to Richards Bay, and ultimately to Johannesburg, where he was completing the specialised aircraft training required for his final assessments.
Ntuli directed the Bursary Unit to render all necessary support to the Manuel family.
"An official from the Office of the Premier will be dispatched to engage directly with the family, convey personal condolences, and assist with immediate arrangements," the Premier said.
In the meantime, Ntuli said he is awaiting a full report on the technical
cause of the accident.
"I wish to assure the family and our communities that this devastating loss will not deter us from our mission. The struggle for the empowerment of our youth continues. We will honour Leeché's memory by remaining steadfast and unwavering in our commitment to opening doors of opportunity for young people," Ntuli said.
Excellentia Airline Academy confirmed that it is fully cooperating with the South African Civil Aviation Authority and the relevant investigative authorities.
"We are devastated by this tragic loss. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families, loved ones, colleagues, and fellow students affected by this tragedy," the Academy said.
Friends and family have also shared tributes on Manuel's Facebook page.