PRESS RELEASE
Fatal Aviation Accident near Porterville
The South African Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association (SAHPA) confirms a fatal paragliding accident that occurred in the mountains near Porterville in the Western Cape.
The incident involved a 55-year-old British national. Emergency response and rescue coordination were managed by the Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre (ARCC), with recovery conducted by local Emergency Medical Services (EMS).
Despite the rapid response, the pilot succumbed to injuries sustained in the accident. SAHPA extends its condolences to the family, friends, and the broader aviation community affected by this tragedy.
The circumstances surrounding the accident are subject to a formal investigation by the relevant authorities. As this process is ongoing, it would be inappropriate to speculate on the cause of the accident at this stage.
Further information will be released if and when it becomes appropriate to do so.
For official reporting, please contact:
SAHPA National Safety Officer – safety@sahpa.co.za
Accident and Incident Investigation Division (AIID) – AiidInbox@caa.co.za
Issued by:
Louis Stanford
Email: chairman@sahpa.co.za
Mobile: + 27 79 143 9009
Date: 18 January 2026