Mbalula hails SACAA crew at Midrand memorial

Captain Thabiso Tolo, First Officer Tebogo Lekalakala and Flight Inspector Gugu Mnguni were killed last month when the SACAA aircraft they were traveling in crashed in George shortly after take-off.

On Thursday family, friends and colleagues gathered at Calvary Methodist Church in Midrand to celebrate their lives.

Speaking at the memorial, Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula told mourners that the impact of their death would be felt far and wide.

"We have been robbed of young talent who had so much promise for the future, we are poorer without them. Allow me to express our most sincere condolences on behalf of the government and the people of South Africa.

"Their loss represents a major setback to in our efforts to transform the sector and open up opportunities for the previously disadvantaged and the youth."

He adds that even in their death they set a good example.

"While we mourn their passing, we must equally celebrate their lives.

"We must find restoration that they were head and shoulders above their peers, their illustrious careers must become a beacon for our youth to emulate and work on their footprints."

Mbalula added that the department remains committed to uncovering the circumstances that led to the fateful crash.

"An investigation is currently underway to establish the root cause of this accident. Let us exercise patience and await the outcomes of this investigation."

"The investigation is being conducted by the Accident and Incident Division which is accountable to the Minister of Transport and not the Civil Aviation Authority as others have been quick to suggest."

It is the first time a SACAA aircraft has been involved in a similar crash.

"We must draw lessons from this incident," he added.