The South African Air Force (SAAF) is mourning the loss of veteran test pilot Retired Lieutenant Colonel James O’Connell, who was killed in a crash at the West Coast Air Show on Saturday 22 March.
O’Connell was the sole occupant aboard the ex-SAAF Impala Mk I jet trainer he was flying at Saldanha Airfield. He was performing a ‘dirty’ roll (with undercarriage and flaps extended) at the time of the crash. Eyewitness accounts report that the aircraft (registration ZU-IMP) appeared to be under control during most of the display. However, during one of the final manoeuvres, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of altitude and entered a steep dive before making contact with the ground.
“Renowned for his exceptional skill, dedication and passion for Flight Testing, Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) O’Connell was a pivotal figure in advancing South Africa’s aviation capabilities, particularly in the field of flight testing,” Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Kobus Meyer (Chief Test Pilot) and Lieutenant Colonel Barend Bezuidenhout (Chief Test Engineer) said on behalf of the SAAF.
O’Connell’s career spanned over 28 years in the South African Air Force. He began his career in the SAAF in 1985 and graduated as a test pilot from the prestigious Empire Test Pilots’ School in the United Kingdom in 1996. He served in the South African Air Force until December 2013. He received the Pro Patria medal, the 10-year Good Service medal, the 20-year Service medal and the General Service medal.
“During his tenure, he played a vital role in the development and enhancement of critical air and weapon systems,” the SAAF said. He was the project Test Pilot for the Agusta A109 Light Utility Helicopter, where he deployed to Italy, ultimately ensuring that the helicopters met the SA Air Force’s operational and contractual requirements following the acquisition of 30 of the rotorcraft. After the tour, he served as the project Test Pilot for the Oryx helicopter mid-life upgrade.
He was appointed as the Chief Test Pilot of the Test Flight and Development Centre where he also assisted with flight testing of the Rooivalk attack helicopter.
O’Connell accumulated over 4 000 flying hours on rotary wing and over 1 600 hours on fixed-wing aircraft, including extensive time in Arctic and Antarctic operations.
His exemplary service was recognised multiple times at Air Force Base Overberg with the John Bishop Flight Tester of the Year Award, honouring his exceptional flight test skills and technical expertise.
Colonel Mark Gomez, Officer Commanding of Air Force Base Overberg, the home of flight testing in the SA Air Force, paid tribute, stating, “Lieutenant Colonel O’Connell was an exceptional aviator and flight tester. His contributions to the SA Air Force will be remembered for years to come, and his loss leaves a profound void in the flight test community.”
“O’Connell leaves behind a legacy of principle-centred, uncompromising flight test conduct, innovation, and unwavering service to the operational line. The South African Air Force extends its deepest condolences to his wife, Ansie, and their three sons, James, Christiaan and Daniël, who sacrificed a lot to support Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) O’Connell during his SA Air Force career. Our hearts also go out to family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time,” the SAAF said.
A memorial service will be held on Monday 7 April at 15h00 in the TFASA hanger, Oudtshoorn Airfield.
O’Connell joined the Test Flying Academy of South Africa (TFASA) in 2014 and was serving as the Chief Flight Instructor at the time of his death.
