Tributes have poured in from across South Africa and from further abroad for Andrew Blackwood-Murray, the veteran pilot who remains missing following a tragic aircraft crash off the coast of Durban on Thursday afternoon.
Blackwood-Murray, 61, was performing a display in his ZS-AEC Extra 300 aircraft as part of an airshow linked to the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals (NGAP) Global Summit 2025, hosted at Virginia Airport, when the plane crashed into the ocean just before 14:00.
Ongoing Search Operation
Emergency services and eyewitnesses quickly responded, with reports of the plane plunging into the sea near Suncoast Beach.
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), eThekwini lifeguards, Police Search and Rescue, and other agencies launched a joint operation, which remains ongoing.
“The NSRI rescue craft Spirit of Surfski 6 will be deployed to assist in the ongoing search and provide a platform for Police and Metro divers conducting scuba operations,” said NSRI duty coxswain Lorenzo Taverna-Tunisan.
Battery Beach and surrounding areas have been closed to the public as wreckage continues to wash ashore and search teams expand their efforts.
A Life Dedicated to Flight
Blackwood-Murray, well-known within aviation circles, was regarded as a world-class pilot and true gentleman.
He was celebrated not just for his elite flying skills, but also for his warmth and mentorship within the aviation community.
On social media, tributes flooded in.
“Andrew, your spirit will forever soar in the skies you loved,” shared respected media personality and close friend, John Walland, who remembered him as “a warm and passionate man whose skills touched so many lives.”
Others reflected on his humility and approachability, regardless of how busy he was.
“Gonna miss you. A gentleman, an amazing pilot… He will certainly leave a gap in the airshow display calendar,” wrote Venessa Richardson.
“My heart bleeds, Andrew. You were such a gentleman. I’m glad I had the pleasure of sharing a classroom with you,” added Ryan Douwie.
A Legacy That Endures
As the search continues, tributes to Andrew Blackwood-Murray serve as a reminder of the deep personal and professional impact he made throughout his life.
His passion for flight, dedication to airshows, and mentorship of the next generation of pilots leaves behind a legacy that will not be forgotten.
Authorities have asked the public to remain sensitive to the situation and to allow recovery teams the space and support needed as the operation progresses.
Blackwood-Murray leaves behind a wife, Kyla, and son, Matthew.
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