A peaceful hike in the Tsitsikamma Forest turned tragic when a 74-year-old Langebaan resident, Mr Hermie van Zyl, was reported missing and later found deceased in dense woodland near the iconic Tsitsikamma Big Tree.
Mr van Zyl, who had been hiking with friends, reportedly deviated from the designated trail on Tuesday afternoon, 21 October 2025 and did not return. When he failed to reunite with his group, a full-scale search was launched. Search teams from the Mountain Club of South Africa, the South African Police Service Land and Sea Search and Rescue and the SAPS Dog Unit conducted an extensive multi-day operation to locate him.
The search came to a sad conclusion on Wednesday, 30 October 2025 when Mr van Zyl’s body was discovered near the Tsitsikamma Big Tree Forest Office. Due to the rugged and heavily forested terrain, the location was inaccessible by road. The South African Police Service subsequently requested air support from the South African Air Force (SAAF) to conduct the recovery.
On Thursday, 31 October 2025 a BK117 helicopter from Air Force Station Port Elizabeth’s 15 Squadron C-Flight was deployed to assist. The recovery crew consisted of Pilot in Command Major C.J. Oberholzer, Flight Engineer Flight Sergeant L.B. Mahlakwana and Mobile Air Operations Team Commander Major N. van Schalkwyk. Despite challenging conditions, the team successfully completed the recovery operation.
The South African Air Force extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Mr van Zyl during this difficult time. As guardians of the skies and proud servants of the nation, the SAAF remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting communities in moments of need.
This successful recovery demonstrates the professionalism, courage and dedication of Air Force personnel in Port Elizabeth and across South Africa.
This incident also serves as a somber reminder of the unpredictable risks of outdoor activities in remote natural environments. The South African Air Force encourages all outdoor enthusiasts to exercise caution, remain on marked trails and plan adequately for emergencies.
