CAPE TOWN – The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has clarified that a helicopter crash during firefighting operations in Hout Bay on Wednesday was not part of its Working on Fire programme.

The Kishugu Aviation helicopter came down on the mountain slopes on 25 March whilst mopping up hot spots from a vegetation fire that had been burning since Tuesday afternoon. The pilot exited the aircraft unaided and was transported to hospital for medical evaluation.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the DFFE confirmed the helicopter was operating under a separate contract with SANParks at the time of the incident.

“The department confirms that, at the time of the incident, the helicopter was deployed under a separate contractual arrangement and was not undertaking work on behalf of DFFE. The aircraft was operating under a contract with South African National Parks,” the statement read.

The department holds a five-year agreement with the Kishugu Joint Venture, which includes Kishugu Aviation, to implement its Working on Fire Programme. The programme provides aerial support for firefighting operations on DFFE-managed land and assists with community fire incidents when required.

However, the DFFE noted that Wednesday’s crash fell outside the scope of this agreement.

Ward Councillor Roberto Quintas confirmed on Wednesday evening that the pilot sustained only minor injuries in what he described as a miraculous outcome.

The crash occurred as crews battled a blaze that started above Grotto Road on Tuesday at 13:40 and spread overnight after cresting the mountain ridge.

The DFFE extended well wishes to the pilot and commended all firefighting and emergency personnel involved in the wildfire suppression efforts.

Aviation and law enforcement authorities are expected to investigate the incident.

ALSO READ: Working on fire helicopter crashes during Hout Bay mountain fire