Test pilot James O'Connell tragically lost his life during a routine display at the West Coast Airshow.
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Tributes have poured in for seasoned and respected South African test pilot James O’ Connell, who died in a crash while performing a routine display at Saldanha Airfield at the West Coast Airshow on Saturday.
In a statement widely shared, West Coast Airshow Accident Report said it was believed O'Connell, who had more than 36 years of aviation experience under his belt, had lost altitude of the Impala Mark 1 aircraft, but the cause of the crash is now part of a formal investigation.
“Eyewitness accounts report that the aircraft appeared to be under control during most of the display. However, during one of the final maneuvers, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of altitude and entered a steep dive before making contact with the ground,” they said.
Test pilot James O'Connell executed his final manoeuvre just minutes before his Impala aircraft tragically crashed during a display at the Saldanha Air Show on Saturday.
Image: Ian Landsberg/Independent Newspapers
Airshow commentator, Brian Emmenis, who witnessed the event in real-time, explained what he had seen.
“He went into the dirty configuration, he rolled the aircraft – the dirty configuration is when the undercarriage is extended – he turned the aircraft, the undercarriage was up. On coming out of it, one could clearly see that he was losing height. He went out towards the hangars— he was at that stage in a serious deep dive—and he went straight into the ground. There was no sign of an attempt to eject. Emergency services responded immediately, the crowd remained behind the barriers, totally stunned, and medical attention was handed to the crowd.”
The South African Civil Aviation Authority and Air Show South Africa were notified and a full investigation is currently under way, they said.
John Walland, a retired senior officer of the South African Air Force, shared his condolences.
“Rest in peace, James O’Connell. A skilled pilot, a passionate aviator, and a true professional who brought joy and inspiration to so many. Your tragic passing at the Saldanha Airshow is a deep loss to the aviation community and beyond. May your spirit continue to soar in the skies you loved so much. Sincere condolences to your family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time," Walland said.
The South African Air Force Museum PE said: “RIP to a legend and condolences to his family and friends. Pilot James O'Connell, an aviation legend with over 36 years of flying experience, including 25 dedicated to experimental flight testing. James is set to deliver an unparalleled display of skill. With 4000+ hours on Rotary Wing and 1600+ hours on Fixed Wing aircraft, his achievements include leading testing for the South African Air Force A109 LUH helicopter and spearheading the Oryx helicopter upgrade.
But that's not all. James's unique experience in arctic and Antarctic operations sets him apart. A retired senior officer of the South African Air Force, he advises on flight test matters and holds esteemed positions in aviation associations. Presently, James serves as the Chief Flight Instructor for the Test Flying Academy of South Africa."
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