The search for a missing Cessna 206 and its pilot, Johann Marx (30) lasted a little over two days.

It came to a tragic end today, October 18, when the wreckage of the young pilot’s aircraft was found in remote terrain near Barberton by an aerial search and rescue (SAR) team in one of the identified search zones.

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Aerial teams from Leading Edge Aviation, Netcare HEMS and Fidelity Security Services joined ground SAR units to search for Marx and his plane.

Geographical conditions made it difficult to access the wreckage.

Marx’s remains were recovered from the wreckage though a joint effort from volunteers and emergency services.

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The scene was handed over to SAPS and the Civil Aviation Authority.

The cause of the accident is under investigation.

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Marx would have celebrated his 31st birthday next month.

He lived in Pretoria.