media release 1 – accident airlink flight - 24/09/09
ACCIDENT - AIRLINK FLIGHT
Airlink Media bulletin
Issued 24 September 2009
JOHANNESBURG - Airlink regrets to confirm that its technical positioning flight, SA 8911 positioning from Durban to Pietermaritzburg was involved in an accident at 08h00 today .
The aircraft a Jetstream 41 ( 29 seats ) departed from Durban International Airport and shortly after take-off declared an emergency, crew reported engine loss and smoke from the rear of the aircraft. The aircraft ditched approx 400 m off the Airport in the fields of a school on the Bluff and broke into 3 pieces.
At this time, search and rescue operations are in the process and we have confirmed information that there are 3 survivors. Airlink staff have been sent to the accident scene, and will do everything possible to assist the emergency services and local authorities.
There were no passengers only 3 crew onboard the aircraft. Their names and conditions are not known at the present time. We are receiving emergency assistance from the Police, Fire and Rescue etc.
Airlink will release further information as soon as it becomes available.
Journalists should call 082 854 1988 for further information.
Issued for Airlink
KARIN MURRAY