Exams and Lessons Uninterrupted After Plane Crash

Natalie Nyathi

Following a light aircraft crash at Hoërskool Alberton on Sunday, the Gauteng Department of Education has confirmed that school activities, including the National Senior Certificate examinations, will proceed as planned. The incident occurred when a light aircraft, experiencing engine failure during an evaluation flight, made an emergency landing on the school’s rugby field and crashed into the tuckshop.

Ekurhuleni Emergency Services spokesperson Tikkie MacDonald reported that the instructor and student pilot, who were conducting a final evaluation flight for a private pilot license, escaped without injuries. “The light aircraft experienced an engine failure, necessitating an emergency landing, crashing into the school’s tuckshop,” said MacDonald.

Gauteng MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane, assured parents that the incident would not affect the ongoing National Senior Certificate examinations or daily school activities. “As a precaution, parents are encouraged to ensure that learners bring their own food to school while repairs to the tuckshop are being arranged,” said Chiloane.

The Department of Education commended the school’s management, emergency services, and aviation authorities for their swift and coordinated response to the incident. The Department also thanked them for ensuring the safety of the learners and staff.

While the tuckshop is temporarily out of service, the school has made arrangements to minimize disruption. Parents have been asked to provide students with their own food while repairs are underway.

The Civil Aviation Authority has been notified of the incident and has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the engine failure. The investigation will include a review of the aircraft’s maintenance records and interviews with the flight crew.