The wife of veteran South African pilot Andrew Blackwood-Murray who was killed in a tragic plane crash off the coast of Durban on Thursday, has paid an emotional tribute.
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.
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 as at the time of publishing.
“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.
World-class pilot
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.
Kyla Blackwood-Murray took to Facebook on Saturday to pay tribute to her husband, writing: ‘Yesterday I said goodbye to my most favourite boy in the whole wide world.
‘It was the call I have been dreading my whole life. But I always said I would rather he go doing the things he loves the most. I just didn’t realise he would have left so soon.
‘He was my world. We did everything together and we had so many plans. We were going to grow old and be the most awesome geriatrics together.
‘He has taken away the biggest piece of my soul and I don’t know how I am going to live without my wingman.
‘He brought me more joy than I ever imagined possible. He was always there for me helping me become the best version of myself.
‘I am beyond heartbroken. Just to have one more day with him. If only.
‘My baby may you soar the skies and visit all the amazing places you had on your bucket list.
‘You rocked my world. You gave me meaning and purpose and I don’t know how I am going to do life without you.
‘Thank you for loving me completely. I am devastated. You will always be my person. Forever and always Andrew Blackwood-Murray.’
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.
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