CAPE TOWN – A routine take-off turned to tragedy in seconds at Morningstar Airfield on Sunday 30 November, when experienced instructor Mike Cooper and 21-year-old commercial pilot Tyler Horrmann perished when their Sling 2 aircraft crashed just beyond the runway.
As TygerBurger first reported on Sunday, the sudden loss has shaken Cape Town’s aviation circle to its core and triggered an urgent investigation by the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA).
On Wednesday Godfrey Needham, chair of the Morningstar Flying Club, expressed the profound sorrow felt across the aviation community.
“It is with deep regret that we confirm the aircraft accident that occurred on Sunday at Morningstar Airfield,” he told the newspaper.
“A privately owned Sling 2, ZU-FWF, took off at about 11:15 from Runway 20 and shortly after takeoff appeared to experience difficulties. The aircraft banked left and went down into the trees next to the runway runoff area. The weather was clear, with a fresh south-easterly wind.”
Experienced pilots
Needham confirmed both Cooper and Horrmann were exceptionally experienced pilots, despite the latter’s young age.
“The two occupants were highly experienced and qualified commercial pilots, with considerable hours flown in Sling aircraft. The club extends our deepest sympathies to the families and friends of the two pilots. The loss of these two competent and qualified pilots is deeply felt by the entire flying community.”
He added that SACAA investigators had completed their on-site inspections and their preliminary report is expected in about a month.
Tributes for a young pilot gone too soon
The death of young Horrmann, from Gqeberha, has sparked an outpouring of emotion from friends, family and community members.
One mother shared a heartfelt tribute on Facebook, recalling how Tyler had taken her son on his first-ever flight: “Last year he took my son Ian on his very first flight, and that moment has become one of Ian’s favourite memories. The excitement, the kindness, the passion Tyler shared that day will stay with us forever.”
She described Horrmann as a young man with boundless potential, a vibrant personality and a warm heart.
“Tyler was remarkable, with the brightest future. My heart is shattered. Thinking of Sheldon Horrmann, Tanya Horrmann, Kyle during this unimaginable time. May his beautiful spirit fly high.”
Aviation community mourns two respected pilots
Cooper, a respected flight instructor known for his calm guidance and deep knowledge, and Horrmann, an energetic young pilot with a promising career ahead of him, leave behind a legacy of passion and dedication to aviation.
“Their deaths have cast a long shadow over Morningstar Airfield, where both men inspired fellow aviators and touched the lives of many aspiring pilots.”
As investigations into the cause of the crash continue, the Morningstar Flying Club said its focus remained on supporting the families and honouring the memory of Cooper and Horrmann, two pilots whose love of flying will not be forgotten.
Police spokesperson Capt FC van Wyk said emergency services responded quickly, but both men succumbed to their injuries. Philadelphia police have opened an inquest case, which will run concurrently with SACAA’s formal investigation.
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