Hoërskool Alberton Plane Crash Won’t Disrupt Matric Exams, Says GDE

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has confirmed that the Hoërskool Alberton plane crash will not interfere with the ongoing National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations. The department assured parents and learners that safety measures are in place and schooling activities will continue as normal.

Hoërskool Alberton Plane Crash: Light Aircraft Makes Emergency Landing

A light aircraft made an emergency landing on the rugby field of Hoërskool Alberton on Sunday morning, 26 October 2025. The plane, which was conducting a final evaluation flight for a private pilot licence, reportedly experienced engine failure mid-flight.

Ekurhuleni Emergency Services spokesperson Tikkie MacDonald said the aircraft crashed into the school tuckshop after attempting to land on the field. “The instructor and student onboard escaped without injuries,” he confirmed. Firefighters and emergency personnel responded immediately to the scene to secure the area and assess the damage.

GDE Confirms No Impact on Matric Exams

Gauteng Education Department spokesperson Steven Mabona reassured the community that the NSC exams at Hoërskool Alberton will proceed without disruption. “The school’s management has been proactive in ensuring the examination venues remain safe and unaffected,” Mabona said.

The department also commended the quick response of the school’s management, emergency services, and aviation authorities after the  Hoërskool Alberton plane crash. Their cooperation helped prevent panic and ensured that no learners or staff were harmed.

School Tuckshop Closed for Repairs

The tuckshop, which suffered damage during the Hoërskool Alberton plane crash, will remain closed until repairs are completed. Mabona urged parents to ensure their children bring packed lunches to school during this period. “We are arranging for repairs and assessing structural safety to ensure normal operations resume soon,” he added.

The school has set up temporary measures to manage learners’ needs during breaks. GDE officials will continue monitoring the situation closely to maintain safety and order on campus.

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Civil Aviation Authority Investigation Underway

The incident has been reported to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), which has launched an official investigation into the cause of the crash. Preliminary findings suggest that engine failure during the training flight led to the forced landing attempt.

Aviation safety experts are expected to inspect the wreckage and analyse the aircraft’s maintenance records. The CAA’s final report will help determine whether further regulatory actions are necessary to prevent similar incidents in future.

Community Praises Quick Response

Parents and local residents have praised the swift actions of first responders and school officials. Their coordinated efforts ensured the safety of learners, prevented fire hazards, and restored calm within hours.

Many expressed relief that the Hoërskool Alberton plane crash occurred outside school hours and did not lead to any casualties. The GDE’s transparent communication has also helped ease community concerns.

Broader Aviation Concerns

Meanwhile, the Airline Association of Southern Africa (AASA) has highlighted growing concerns about flight safety and delays across the country. Over 200 instrument flight procedures remain suspended by the Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS), affecting several airports, including George, Kimberley, and Polokwane.

AASA CEO Aaron Munetsi said the suspension has caused costly disruptions for airlines. The association urged authorities to expedite compliance reviews to restore safe and efficient operations nationwide.

Gauteng Schools Remain Focused on Exams

 Hoërskool Alberton Plane Crash – Despite the weekend’s unexpected incident, the GDE reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a safe environment for learners. “All matric examinations will continue as scheduled. There is no reason for panic,” Mabona concluded.

The department has deployed officials to offer additional support to the school if needed. Learners, parents, and educators have been reminded to focus on completing the final exams successfully.