Pilot Tragedy: KZN Premier Pays Emotional Tribute To Bursary Star Killed In Flight Crash

Thamsanqa Ntuli has expressed deep sorrow following the death of 24-year-old aspiring pilot Leeché Manuel, who died in a light aircraft crash in Gauteng.

According to reports, the aircraft went down in the North West area of Sofasonke. Manuel had been undergoing flight training in Johannesburg on Thursday when the tragedy occurred.

“At the time of the accident, Manuel was in the final stages of completing his Instructor training and was on a routine practice flight with his instructor. Both individuals succumbed to their injuries in the crash,” the Premier said.

Premier’s Bursary Programme Mourns ‘Shining Example’

Manuel was a beneficiary of the KwaZulu-Natal Premier’s Bursary Programme and had recently been awarded funding in February to pursue his Commercial Pilot Licence and Instructor Rating.

Ntuli described the young aviator as a symbol of dedication and ambition.

“We are devastated by this unimaginable loss. Leeché was not merely a bursary recipient; he was a shining example of the talent, discipline, and determination that our province seeks to nurture. Being on the verge of qualifying as an Instructor is a testament to his commitment and hard work.

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“On behalf of the Provincial Government and the people of KwaZulu-Natal, I extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the broader aviation school community,” Ntuli said.

The Premier explained that Manuel’s training journey began in Pietermaritzburg, continued in Richards Bay, and culminated in Johannesburg, where he was completing specialised aircraft training for his final assessments.

Support Promised For Pilot’s Family

Ntuli confirmed that the Bursary Unit had been instructed to provide full support to the Manuel family.

“An official from the Office of the Premier will be dispatched to engage directly with the family, convey personal condolences, and assist with immediate arrangements,” he said.

The Premier added that he is awaiting a detailed report on the technical cause of the crash.

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“I wish to assure the family and our communities that this devastating loss will not deter us from our mission. The struggle for the empowerment of our youth continues. We will honour Leeché’s memory by remaining steadfast and unwavering in our commitment to opening doors of opportunity for young people,” Ntuli said.

Meanwhile, Excellentia Airline Academy confirmed it is cooperating fully with the South African Civil Aviation Authority and other investigative bodies.

“We are devastated by this tragic loss. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families, loved ones, colleagues, and fellow students affected by this tragedy,” the Academy said.

Tributes have continued to pour in from friends and relatives on Manuel’s Facebook page.