A BELOVED acrobatic pilot remains missing after a tragic crash at North Beach yesterday afternoon. An intensive search was launched in the afternoon and was suspended last night.

Since the early hours of Friday morning, Metro Police, eThekwini Municipal lifeguards and the SAPS have continued to recover wreckage washed ashore overnight.

Pending official statement on the identity of the pilot, friends and relatives have shared their sentiments on social media. The aviator was largely described as a gentleman and a legend who dominated the skies with talent and sharp skills.

Also read: VIDEO: Pilot missing after aircraft crashes into sea near Suncoast

The pilot took part in the Virginia Airshow last week, and shared on social media how the experience  was “an honour to be part of the ‘Missing Man Formation’ at Virginia Airshow in tribute to the late Captain Lorrie Raath”.

The National Sea Rescue Institute confirmed that this was an ongoing search operation. “The search grid co-ordinates are being evaluated in co-operation with NSRI EOC (Emergency Operations Centre) using advanced search technology, taking into account sea drift patterns. We are appealing for sensitivity in this tragic incident. We embrace the family, friends and colleagues of the missing man in this difficult time,” said Lorenzo Taverna-Tunisan, NSRI Durban duty coxswain.

The City of eThekwini cautioned that Battery Beach remains closed until further notice.

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