Young Pilot Leeché Manuel Dies in Gauteng Plane Crash
A 24-year-old pilot student, Leeché Manuel, tragically died in a plane crash in Gauteng, South Africa, on Thursday, February 19, 2026. Manuel was on a routine practice flight with his instructor when the light aircraft crashed in the North West area of Sofasonke according to reports.
Dedicated Pilot and Bursary Recipient
Leeché Manuel, originally from eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal, was described as a dedicated pilot student. He was in the final stages of completing his Instructor training at the time of the accident as stated by KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli. Both Manuel and his instructor succumbed to their injuries in the crash.
Manuel was a recipient of the Premier’s Bursary Programme, which supported his pursuit of a Commercial Pilot Licence and Instructor Rating. He received a bursary in February to further his training according to the Premier’s office. His training journey took him from Pietermaritzburg to Richards Bay, and ultimately to Johannesburg.
Tributes and Support for the Family
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli expressed devastation at the loss, stating Manuel was a “shining example of the talent, discipline, and determination” the province seeks to nurture as reported by IOL. Ntuli extended condolences to Manuel’s family, friends, and the aviation school community.
The Premier’s office has directed the Bursary Unit to provide support to the Manuel family and dispatched an official to engage with them directly and assist with arrangements according to the Premier’s statement.
Excellentia Airline Academy, where Manuel was training, confirmed its full cooperation with the South African Civil Aviation Authority and investigative authorities. The Academy expressed its devastation and condolences to those affected by the tragedy as reported by IOL.
Friends and family have also been sharing tributes on Manuel’s Facebook page.
Investigation Underway
Premier Ntuli stated he is awaiting a full report on the technical cause of the accident. He affirmed that the loss would not deter the province’s commitment to youth empowerment and opening opportunities for young people according to IOL.