Local news

Plane makes emergency landing in Mohlakeng after mid-air engine failure

A routine flight turned tense before ending in a controlled emergency landing in Randfontein.

A light sport aircraft made an emergency landing in Mohlakeng on Saturday, April 11, after reportedly travelling from Parys en route to Krugersdorp.

The aircraft came down in an open veld near Main Reef Road.

The aircraft shortly after it crashed. Photo : Maverick Gqoba

The pilot, Johan Vos, was the only person on board and was not injured.

According to Vos, he had been flying between Parys in the Free State and Krugersdorp when he experienced a sudden engine failure, forcing the aircraft to descend. In an effort to avoid vehicles on the main road and nearby houses, he attempted an emergency landing in an open field.

However, he was unable to reach the intended landing spot and instead came down in the veld.

Also read: SA’s ongoing drunk driving tragedy

The aircraft shortly after coming to a complete stop.Photo: Maverick Gqoba
Pilot Johan Vos says an engine failure in the aircraft caused the crash. Photo: Maverick Gqoba

Vos contacted aviation authorities, who are expected to launch a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Police and local traffic wardens responded shortly after the aircraft landed.

The traffic warders who helped out on the scene. Photo: Maverick Gqoba

Resident Koena Qhala said he heard the aircraft as it came down.

“I heard a loud bang near the open field and went to check. That’s when I saw the pilot coming out of the plane. Luckily, he looked okay,” he said.

Authorities are expected to provide further updates as investigations continue.

At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!

Support local journalism

Add The Citizen as a preferred source to see more from Randfontein Herald in Google News and Top Stories.

Maverick Gqoba

A loyal West Rand resident, Maverick is a skilled radio journalist with a National Diploma in Media Studies from Boston Media House (2021), majoring in Radio Broadcasting and minoring in Journalism. Known for being adaptable, solution-driven and a strong team player, he excels in written and verbal reporting, video production, photography and other core journalism functions. Maverick joined the Herald team on 2 February 2026 and is passionate about serving society.

Related Articles

Back to top button