The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) notes with concern the helicopter incident involving Kishugu Aviation.
DFFE has a five-year contract with the Kishugu Joint Venture, of which Kishugu Aviation forms part, to implement the Department’s Working on Fire Programme, trading as Working on Fire (Pty) Ltd. Aerial support under this programme is provided to support firefighting operations on DFFE-managed land and, where required, to assist with community fire incidents.
The incident that occurred yesterday is not linked to the Department’s contract with the service provider (Kishugu Joint Venture).
Initial reports indicate that, on 25 March 2026, one of the service provider’s helicopters, undertaking private work was involved in an incident while conducting wildfire suppression operations in the Hout Bay area. The pilot survived and received medical attention.
The Department confirms that, at the time of the incident, the helicopter was deployed under a separate contractual arrangement and was not undertaking work on behalf of DFFE. The aircraft was operating under a contract with South African National Parks (SANParks).
DFFE wishes the pilot a speedy recovery and commends all firefighting and emergency personnel involved in the wildfire suppression efforts. The relevant aviation and law enforcement authorities are expected to investigate the incident. Members of the public are urged to heed safety advisories and avoid affected areas to enable emergency services to operate without obstruction.
DFFE further notes that, according to the service provider’s initial account, the pilot exited the aircraft unaided, made his way to safety, and was transported to hospital for medical evaluation.
Enquiries:
Zolile Nqayi
Cell: 082 898 6483
E-mail: znqayi@dffe.go.za
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