Fire-fighting agency’s helicopters, light aircraft grounded after audit

WORKING On Fire’s helicopters and small aircraft have been grounded by the SA Civil Aviation Authority (Sacaa) for failure to comply with legislative requirements.

The firefighting agency – which trades as First In Integrated Fire Management Aviation (FFA Aviation) – had been subject to an “intensified oversight audit” following recent incidents involving aircraft in its service.

Firefighting helicopter pilot Hendrik “Bees” Marais was killed on March 9 while fighting a fire at Cape Point.

Darrel Rea, 39, a chief pilot, and helicopter safety leader Jastun Visagie, 23, were then killed during an emergency landing after the aircraft crashed into the mountainside at Bain’s Kloof on April 22.

All three were employed by Working On Fire (WOF).

Spokesperson Phindiwe Gwebu said Sacaa has suspended the helicopter and small-aircraft air operating certificates.

“Following a recent spate of incidents and accidents involving aircraft operated by FFA Aviation, the Sacaa had intensified oversight audit to determine whether aviation safety was being compromised in any way by this operator.

“The Sacaa’s audits were conducted parallel to the ongoing accident investigations, which are being conducted by the Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation Division under the banner of the Department of Transport,” Gwebu said.

She said recent surveillance conducted on FFA Aviation had yielded findings which were serious in nature.

“The operator is entitled to appeal the suspension decision by applying to the director of Civil Aviation. Unsafe operations undermine the growth and prosperity of the aviation industry.

“The basic principles of airmanship should always be upheld, and aviation safety and security must always be prioritised,” Gwebu added.

FFA Aviation spokesperson Naranda Leeuwner said Sacaa had agreed to assist “with resources to expedite the process of getting us back in the air”.

“We are committed to the safety and security standards as stipulated by the CAA.

“Short-term plans have been made to ensure we meet our contractual obligations.

“Also we intend to issue another press statement within a week when the situation has normalised.”