ALS paramedics
Two people on a training flight in Kwazulu Natal on Saturday had a lucky escape after being forced to make an emergency landing on a beach after their light aircraft experienced engine problems.
The National Sea Rescue Institute reported that the 28-year-old instructor pilot and his 18-year-old trainee pilot reported to the Virginia airport control that they would not be able to make it back to the runway.
NSRI spokesperson, Craig Lambinon, said the Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre coordinated the emergency response.
He said various role players were alerted, including police and rescue and emergency services.
“Virginia ATC confirmed that the aircraft had landed on the beach in the vicinity west of Virginia Beach and the pilot confirmed that there were no injuries.
He said the aircraft was found safely on the beach and was removed ahead of the incoming Spring high tide.
Lambinon said the two pilots were “shaken”, but in good spirits, and the NSRI commended
