A light aircraft crashed into the tuck shop at Hoërskool Alberton in Gauteng’s East Rand on Sunday morning, causing significant structural damage. No injuries were reported.

Both the student pilot and instructor escaped unharmed. Police, emergency services, and aviation authorities responded swiftly to secure the scene and ensure public safety.

Later that same day, a separate aviation tragedy claimed three lives when a helicopter went down in the Kurumanheuwels area between Danielskuil and Kuruman in the Northern Cape. 

A light aircraft crashed into the tuck shop at Hoërskool Alberton in Gauteng. Photo: Facebook

The victims were identified as pilot Anlo Ferreira, veterinarian Dr Alwyn Venter, and Venter’s assistant, Angelo Roberts. All three were fatally injured.

Sacaa’s accident and incident investigation division confirmed the investigation is expected to take several weeks, during which authorities will examine flight records and all available evidence. The Alouette helicopter crashed in the late afternoon. 

In the Alberton incident, the aircraft attempted an emergency landing on the school’s rugby field before crashing into the tuck shop, says Gauteng department of education spokesperson Steve Mabona. The premises were unoccupied at the time, except for security personnel.

“Fortunately, because it was a Sunday, there were no learners or employees present – only the security personnel safeguarding the school,” said Mabona.

The school would prioritise repairs to the tuck shop during the fourth term, while learners continue with exams, he added. Parents have been advised to ensure learners bring their own food until the facility is restored.

The department commended the school’s management, emergency services, and aviation authorities for their swift and coordinated response. Sacaa has not yet released details on the cause of the crash.

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OFM News/Eva Molekane