UPDATE: Missing aircraft found in KZN Midlands, pilot declared deceased, search for second plane continues

The Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre (ARCC) has confirmed that one of the missing aircraft has been found in the West of Howick in KwaZulu-Natal.

ARCC spokesperson Gregory Critchley said the pilot and one occupant were found dead.

Critchley added that search and rescue operations are continuing to locate the missing second aircraft.

Earlier, Critchley said the ARCC was alerted to a light aircraft that had relayed a Mayday call to air traffic control.

"The ARCC immediately alerted search and rescue teams through the KZN early warning network to activate for a search and rescue operation. In total, the ARCC is currently coordinating a search and rescue operation for two aircraft that failed to arrive at their destination," said Critchley at the time.

Critchley added that the search operation was being led by the SAPS search and rescue team, assisted by SARZA KZN, Mountain SAR, HAMNET, K9SARA, Midlands EMS, IPSS Search and Rescue, Freddies Fire Services and Clandestine Drone Operations.

* This is a developing story.

sinenhlanhla.masilela@iol.co.za

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