Lani Fouché

A well-known South African pilot, Laurie Kay, passed away in the Kruger National Park earlier today. He died in the Skukuza offices, presumably of a heart attack.

Today was his first day as volunteer for an anti-rhino poaching campaign in the park. He was due to stay until Sunday.
 
Kay became a household name in 1995 after doing a low level fly pass over the Ellis Park stadium before the iconic World Cup final between the Springboks and New Zealand.
 
In 1996 Kay flew around the country in the brightly painted Olympic Boeing 747 “Ndizani” which ferried the South African Olympic team to Atlanta.
 
In 2000 he was asked to display the 747 at Duxford, another highlight of his illustrious career. He underwent training at the Royal Air Force, but continued his career in the South African Airforce thereafter.

He retired a few years ago.
 
Sanparks spokesperson Ike Phaahla confirmed his death, saying it is a huge loss for the Kruger National Park as well as the aviation community. The Harvard Flying Club of South Africa, where Kay was a member, also confirmed his death.
 
An international aviation commentator and expert, Brian Emmenis, says Kay will be sorely missed.