Airplane accident

The Volunteer Wildfire Services has confirmed that all personnel involved in Wednesday helicopter crash on the slopes of Vlakkenberg are safe.The Volunteer Wildfire Services (VWS) has confirmed that all personnel involved in Wednesday evening’s helicopter incident on the slopes of Vlakkenberg are safe.The organisation said it was relieved to learn from its partners at SANParks and Table Mountain National Park that the pilot operating the aircraft – deployed by Working on Fire and Kishugu – escaped unharmed.VWS also confirmed that its volunteer ground crews, who were on scene at the time of the incident, were not injured.The helicopter had been assisting with wildfire suppression efforts in the Hout Bay area, where emergency teams often contend with challenging terrain and unpredictable conditions.Firefighting helicopters are typically among the first responders during wildfires, operating in high-risk environments to support crews on the ground.VWS highlighted the critical role of coordination between aerial and ground teams, noting that such collaboration is essential in efforts to protect lives, property, and the natural environment.The organisation emphasised that wildland firefighting depends heavily on cooperation between multiple agencies, including volunteer groups, national parks authorities, and specialised firefighting units.“Our thoughts are with the pilot involved and the broader teams,” VWS said, acknowledging the collective effort of Working on Fire, Kishugu, and Table Mountain National Park personnel.