media release 16 - accident airlink flight update #15 - 07/10/09
Media Release #16 – accident Airlink flight
09:15 07 October 2009
Capt Allister Brendan Freeman
27 January 1969 - 07 October 2009
It is with immense sadness that we have learned that our colleague and friend, Capt Allister Freeman, passed away in Durban during the early hours this morning.
Allister succumbed to complications arising from the injuries he sustained in the accident involving flight SA8911 on 24 September near Durban airport.
We offer our deepest sympathy and prayers to Allister’s wife, his young children, mother, brothers, family, friends and colleagues in this time of anguish and grief.
Allister was an experienced and dedicated professional pilot. He joined Airlink in June 2008 as a First Officer. Having passed all of the requisite performance evaluations and proficiency tests, Allister was selected for Captaincy training and subsequently achieved his Command.
Allister will be sadly missed by all of us at Airlink. We will remember Allister for the role he played in averting what could otherwise have been a far worse accident.
Airlink and the aircraft manufacturers are assisting the SA Civil Aviation Authority’s ongoing investigation into the accident and the factors surrounding it. Once it is complete, the SA Civil Aviation Authority will publish the investigator’s findings in a final report. Until then, it would be wrong to speculate on the causes.
At this time, we appeal to journalists to respect Allister’s family’s request for privacy.
A memorial service will be held soon for friends and colleagues so they will be able to pay their respects to Allister.
Rodger Foster
CEO and Managing Director, Airlink