The Civil Aviation Authority is investigating the cause of a helicopter crash in the Southern Cape which claimed the life of a legendary fire pilot on Tuesday.
The 65-year-old pilot was assisting fire fighters in the Vermaaklikheid area near Heidelberg.
At least seven homes and several other structures were destroyed in the blaze. Seasoned pilot, Nico Heyns, is a local hero who also helped with the Knysna fires.
Preliminary investigations indicate that he lost control of the aircraft
It is believed that he was killed on impact. Working on Fire Managing Director Trevor Abrahams says they investigating the incident and has extended sympathies to the family of the pilot.
The fire is still burning out of control. Fire fighting teams have been roped in from other areas to try and contain it. There has been an appeal for energy drinks, food and eye drops for the fire fighters.
