Saldanha – South Africa (Agencies): A tragic incident occurred during the West Coast Air Show in Saldanha, South Africa, on Saturday, as a test pilot, James O’Connell, lost his life after his aircraft crashed while performing a display for spectators.
O’Connell was flying an Impala Mark 1, a single-engine jet aircraft originally designed by Aermacchi and later manufactured under license by Atlas Aircraft Corporation in South Africa. Known for its versatility, the Impala Mark 1 served as a training and light attack aircraft. It was powered by a Rolls-Royce Viper turbojet engine, capable of speeds up to 770 km/h (478 mph), and featured tandem seating for two crew members. Equipped with armaments such as bombs, rocket launchers, and cannons, the aircraft played a significant role in both training and combat scenarios. First introduced in the 1960s, it remained in service with the South African Air Force until 2005.
During one of O’Connell’s final maneuvers, the aircraft abruptly lost altitude and entered a steep dive, crashing into a grassy area. Witnesses reported no signs of an attempt to eject prior to impact. “He was in a serious deep dive and went straight into the ground,” said air show commentator Brian Emmenis.
Emergency services arrived promptly, finding the wreckage engulfed in flames. Despite their efforts, O’Connell was pronounced dead at the scene. Thankfully, no injuries were reported among the spectators or event staff.
The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) and the South African Air Force’s accident unit have initiated an investigation into the cause of the crash. The West Coast Air Show described O’Connell as a highly decorated, retired South African Air Force officer with over 36 years of aviation experience. Event organizers noted he had accrued more than 4,000 flight hours in helicopters and an additional 1,600 hours in fixed-wing aircraft.