A light aircraft crashed in the Glen Austin area of Midrand on Tuesday afternoon, with emergency services rushing to the scene as a secondary motor vehicle accident further complicated the response and caused severe traffic disruptions.
The aircraft came down near the intersection of New Road and Old Pretoria Main Road (R101), close to Grand Central Airport. Initial reports indicated that the plane crashed into a business complex in the area.
Two people injured
City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi confirmed that two people were on board the aircraft and sustained injuries.
“At this stage, two occupants sustained injuries. We’ve got our private ambulance services on site treating the patients,” Mulaudzi said.
Earlier reports from emergency responders indicated that the two occupants were treated at the scene before being transported to hospital. One was reported to have suffered moderate injuries, while the other sustained minor injuries.
The identities of the occupants have not been released.
The aircraft, identified by the Accidents and Incidents Investigations Division (AIID) as a Cessna 172 registered as ZS-FNH, was reportedly conducting an hour-building flight when the incident occurred. Preliminary information indicates that the pilot reported an engine failure before attempting a forced landing west of Grand Central Airport’s Runway 17.
AIID investigating crash
The AIID has launched a safety investigation into the accident.
According to the division, its investigation will focus on establishing the circumstances and contributing factors surrounding the crash, as well as identifying possible safety lessons. The investigation is not intended to determine blame or legal liability.
The aircraft was destroyed in the accident and reportedly damaged palisade fencing at the business premises.
Emergency crews, including EMS, private ambulance services, Grand Central Fire and the South African Police Service, attended the scene.
Secondary crash adds to chaos
The situation became more complicated when a separate motor vehicle accident occurred at the same location while emergency crews were responding to the aircraft crash.
Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla said officers were deployed to assist with traffic management, scene control and diversions.
“At this stage, authorities have not confirmed the number of injuries or casualties resulting from either incident. Details will be provided as further verified information becomes available,” Fihla said.
The secondary crash contributed to significant congestion around the intersection, with motorists facing lengthy delays.
Motorists urged to avoid area
JMPD urged motorists to stay away from the affected intersection and keep access routes clear for emergency vehicles working at the scene.
Drivers were advised to use the N1 via the Allandale Road or Olifantsfontein Road interchanges to bypass the New Road and R101 intersection.
Alternative routes include Olifantsfontein Road, Allandale Road, Lever Road and Dale Road, depending on the direction of travel.
The crash comes as Grand Central Airport and the surrounding Midrand area experience regular aircraft activity, making the investigation into the reported engine failure important in determining exactly what led to Tuesday’s forced landing.
Authorities are expected to provide further information as the investigation progresses
