Death of Grade 11 learner from Pretoria mourned

The learner from Hoërskool Montana, who sadly died in a plane crash on Tuesday, has been identified.

Anika de Beer, a grade 11 learner was killed in a light aircraft accident in the veld just behind the main campus of Onderstepoort veterinary academic hospital on Tuesday afternoon.

De Beer would have celebrated her 17th birthday on Friday, 4 July.

Hoërskool Montana’s post on social media on Wednesday read:

“A few days ago, before the accident, Anika completed her solo flight which was one of her greatest dreams.

“Our deepest sympathy goes out to her parents, family, friends and to all who loved Anika.

“May you feel God’s presence during this time.”

De Beer was a member of the Professional Flight Centre at the Wonderboom airport.

Professional Flight Centre advisor Karel Ehmke confirmed on Wednesday that Anika was on a solo circuit and landings flight.

“She departed at the Wonderboom airport and was supposed to descend also at the Wonderboom airport. She has done a total of 24.14 hours so far.

“She was a brilliant pilot. She died doing what she loved most – being a pilot.”

Ehmke explained that according to South African air law, a student pilot can be 15 years or older.

“A student pilot may fly solo from the age of 16 where after the pilot must apply for a private pilot license from the age of 17.”

Owner of the centre, André le Roux, said on Tuesday evening that since the investigation is ongoing, he cannot comment any further.

“We are severely traumatised by the accident,” said Le Roux.

Rekord reported earlier that Charles Mabaso, spokesperson for the Tshwane Emergency Medical Services (EMS), said on Tuesday that the pilot of the aircraft was declared dead on the scene.

Mabaso confirmed that the light aircraft only had one occupant.

“The accident was reported just before 13:00.” According to Ambulink ambulance service spokesperson Xander Loubser, the EMS declared the female pilot “dead on scene”.

According to eyewitnesses the location of the crash could be seen “from far”.

The accident caused a veld fire with a lot of smoke which was started by the impact of the crash.

The Accident and Incident Investigation Division (AIDD) has been notified of the accident and investigators were dispatched to start the process of investigating the cause of the accident. “Further details about the accident will be released,” said Kabelo Ledwaba of AIDD.