The wingsuit pilot who died during a fatal flight in Platteklip Gorge has been identified as Brendan Weinstein, as authorities reiterated that BASE jumping remains illegal within Table Mountain National Park.
The incident occurred on Monday morning, prompting a large-scale search and recovery operation involving multiple emergency and rescue agencies. Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) spokesperson David Nel said the operation was concluded shortly after 11:26am once the pilot’s body had been safely recovered.
“The crashed pilot was located shortly before 10am. Tragically, he was found deceased,” Nel said. The body was airlifted from the mountain to a nearby landing zone and handed over to the South African Police Service.
The coordinated response involved ground and aerial teams from Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS, South African National Parks (SANParks), SAPS Search and Rescue, ER24, SANParks Honorary Rangers, the Air Mercy Service (AMS) and City of Cape Town Law Enforcement. Rescuers accessed the mountain via the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway, while a rescue helicopter assisted from the air.
SANParks head of communications JP Louw said the incident took place in the northern section of the park and again urged the public to heed warnings about prohibited activities in the protected area.
“SANParks reiterates that BASE jumping is an illegal, unregulated activity and is strictly prohibited within Table Mountain National Park,” Louw said.
He added that the park is protected under the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act and forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where activities that pose a risk to human life and the environment are not allowed.
Weinstein was a well-known figure in the international wingsuit and BASE jumping community. His partner, Kívia Martins, confirmed his identity in a personal message shared with friends and fellow pilots, describing him as deeply loved and someone who left a lasting impact on those around him.
She said she hopes their young son will one day come to know his father through the memories and stories shared by those who knew him.
Both WSAR and SANParks extended condolences to Weinstein’s family and friends, while thanking all rescue personnel and volunteers for their professionalism during the operation. Authorities said an inquest has been opened and further details will be released once investigations are finalised.
