“Reduced” system availability hampers SAAF observation tasking.
35 Squadron hands over command amid uncertain future of Dakota fleet.
Joby completes landmark U.S. Defence exercise with autonomous flight technology.
AirVenture 2026, A renewed emphasis on helicopters and VTOL aircraft.
VÆRIDION and Deutsche Aircraft join forces to advance sustainable regional aviation.
Turkey's Havelsan to produce UAVs in Egypt.
Deutsche Aircraft Quarterly Newsletter, Q3 2025
Company PAL-V clears essential certification milestone.
SAAF flag flown high at AFB Ysterplaat 4×4 & Outdoor Show.
This Week in History - Concorde breaks the sound barrier for the first time.
World Wide Incidents and Accidents
Bonus Video - Defiant Twin Ex Cessna 310
“Reduced” system availability hampers SAAF observation tasking
Kim Helfrich/Guy Martin www.defenceweb.co.za
As part of its duties, the SA Air Force (SAAF) is tasked with monitoring “farm airstrips” as potential sites for trafficking ranging from contraband through to humans and weapons.
This is done, MKP (uMkhonto weSizwe Party) Parliamentary questioner Mzwanele Manyi was informed, by three aircraft types in the SAAF inventory. Minister Angie Motshekga's written response has it the SAAF monitors all airstrips within its borders by means or reconnaissance and surveillance aircraft utilising the “combat aircrafts (Gripen/Hawk) and the transport aircraft (C208)”.
“However, due to reduced availability of systems, the airspace is monitored via radar systems.”
The age of the SAAF's radar network was in the spotlight earlier this year after reports that radar installations at SAAF bases Langebaanweg, Overberg (both in the Western Cape) and Makhado in Limpopo province were operating without radar approach systems due to equipment failures and a lack of financial resources.
This prompted the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) Directorate Corporate Communication (DCC) to respond by saying that SAAF radar systems in use for over 35 years are “still serviceable in spite of long lead times on procurement of spares and down time due to age”. The SANDF added that tactical mobile radar systems have been refurbished to extend “expected lifetime until 2034”.
Manyi's question to the defence and military veterans' minister on monitoring farm airstrips for illegal activity was prompted by Transport Minister Barbara Creecy's May response to an earlier question on the same subject. She told him, also in writing, all “aerodromes” in South Africa need to be certified, licensed, approved or registered to operate legally. She added that there is no prohibition in law approved or for private aerodromes to be established. She did not respond to Manyi on “the growing number of privately constructed aircraft landing strips on privately-owned farms throughout the Republic”.
The Creecy response included mention of the National Aviation Security Committee (NASC) which “deliberates on broader air border security measures” and has, according to her, had an NASC airspace and airports task team in place since February this year. It is tasked to “look at security risks as they may relate to illegal landings, landings without flight plans, airspace surveillance for illegal entry and 'border hopping', criminal activities related to cross border aviation activities or illegal activity at ports of entry”. Its scope includes airspace surveillance, enforcement activities and travel documents.
Creecy told Manyi the task team would be “led” by the Department of Defence (DoD) with support from SAPS (SA Police Service), ATNS (Air Traffic and Navigation Services), SACAA (SA Civil Aviation Authority), BMA (Border Management Authority) and SSA (State Security Agency). National threat and risk assessments are an SSA responsibility.
Motshekga's reply to Manyi has it Cabinet received a threat assessment “in the form of a National Intelligence Estimate (NIE) to which the DoD had made inputs”.
The SAAF C208 (Cessna Caravan) fleet is operated by Air Force Base (AFB) Waterkloof-based 41 squadron with Gripen (2 Squadron) and Hawk Mk 120 (85 Combat Flying School) at AFB Makhado supplying the jets.
As far as is known, 41 Squadron has three sets of day/night reconnaissance systems it can use in the “farm airstrip” tasking and other roles.
35 Squadron Hands Over Command Amid Uncertain Future of Dakota Fleet
Dean Wingrin www.pilotspost.com
Air Force Base Ysterplaat hosted a Combined Change of Command Parade on Friday 26 September, honouring the legacy of one of the South African Air Force's (SAAF) oldest squadrons and formally welcoming new leadership to another.
The event marked the belated Change of Command for 35 Squadron, with outgoing Officer Commanding (OC) Colonel Tamara Thomas-Herwels handing over to Lieutenant Colonel Pieter Scherer, as well as the official Acceptance of Command Parade for 505 Squadron under newly appointed OC Lieutenant Colonel David Magwayi.
Addressing members of 35 Squadron for the final time, Thomas-Herwels reflected on her tenure since January 2022.
“This ceremony is a moment of powerful reflection. A time to look back on the journey we have shared at 35 Squadron, and to look forward with confidence to the future of this incredible maritime squadron,” she said.
She praised the professionalism and determination of her aircrew and ground staff, noting that, “I have watched in awe as this squadron overcame every obstacle. Not with complaint, but with a determined focus on the mission and the objectives of the greater South African Air Force.”
Thomas-Herwels also commended her successor, describing him as “a leader of immense character and capability,” before concluding: “I hand over a squadron that is ready, resilient and proud of its rich maritime history.”
Formed during World War II, 35 Squadron is one of the SAAF's most storied units, long associated with maritime patrol and transport operations. Based at AFB Ysterplaat in Cape Town, its crews flew the venerable C47-TP Turbo Dakota, a turboprop conversion of the iconic World War II C-47 Dakota. The squadron has been central to coastal surveillance, fisheries patrols, search and rescue, and anti-piracy missions.
Yet the unit faces an uncertain future. Despite speculation that the C47-TP fleet had been permanently retired, reports of its demise appear to have been exaggerated. Although the last flight of a Turbo Dakota was believed to have taken place on 22 September 2022, the SAAF is currently investigating whether a return to flying status is feasible.
Only five airframes remain viable, three configured for maritime surveillance and two for transport, all in varying stages of maintenance. Remarkably, at least one transport variant continues to undergo ground engine runs, while the squadron maintains safety audits and training days to ensure qualifications remain current. Even without flight operations, the engineering and ground crews are keeping the squadron ready should the aircraft return to the skies.
The SAAF's maritime division faces challenges balancing operational requirements with available resources. These include sustaining existing capabilities without new aircraft acquisitions and continuing to operate a fleet that has exceeded its original service expectations.
Incoming OC Pieter Scherer is no stranger to these challenges. After qualifying as a pilot in 2007 and a brief period flying the Cessna C208 Caravan, he was posted to 35 Squadron, where he became a transport and maritime aircraft commander. His operational highlights include logistical flights in support of former President Nelson Mandela in Mthatha and anti-piracy patrols in the Mozambique Channel.
Scherer later honed his skills as an instructor at Central Flying School Langebaanweg, where he qualified as an A-Cat Instructor and Testing Officer. After serving in various training and command roles, he completed the Junior Command and Staff Course in 2023 before being appointed to lead 35 Squadron in January this year.
The parade also marked the official appointment of Lt Col David Magwayi as Officer Commanding 505 Squadron, providing security services at AFB Ysterplaat. Magwayi joined the South African Army in 1998 and transferred to the Air Force in 2002, steadily building a career that has combined operational, regimental and command duties. He previously commanded 525 Squadron and, between 2022 and 2025, deployed to the Democratic Republic of Congo with the UN MONUSCO mission, where he served as Protection Commander for the Composite Helicopter Unit in Goma. His appointment to 505 Squadron in December 2024 was formally recognised at today's parade.
The dual ceremony at Ysterplaat highlighted 35 Squadron's ongoing resilience despite three years without flying and marked a new beginning for 505 Squadron under experienced leadership.
As Thomas-Herwels reminded all present, command is about more than individuals: “A command appointment is not about an individual, but rather the continuity and the un-finished work of maritime service. It has indeed been an honour and a privilege.”
Joby Completes Landmark U.S. Defense Exercise with Autonomous Flight Technology
Joby Aviation, Inc. (NYSE:JOBY) recently announced a first-of-its-kind demonstration of its autonomous flight technology. As part of the Resolute Force Pacific (REFORPAC), a Department-Level Exercise led by Pacific Air Forces (PACAF), Joby conducted a successful demonstration and validation of its SuperpilotTM autonomous flight technology over the Pacific Ocean and Hawaii, logging more than 7,000 miles of autonomous operations across more than 40 flight hours.
The autonomous flights were managed from ground control stations at various locations throughout the exercise, primarily from more than 3,000 miles away at Andersen Air Force Base in Guam. A safety pilot was also onboard the aircraft to monitor the system's performance. As part of Joby's long-term strategy to develop dual-use technologies, Superpilot showcased its ability to provide an autonomous solution for the U.S. government's urgent need for light intra-theatre airlift.
The Department of Defence has requested $9.4 billion in its FY26 budget to advance autonomous and hybrid aircraft. The successful REFORPAC exercise positions Joby to compete for upcoming Department of Defence programs. In addition, the work with defence partners can inform integration of autonomous capabilities into Joby's commercial air taxi platform.
“The exercise demonstrated Superpilot's ability to operate in complex, real-world scenarios with the precision and reliability demanded by the U.S. government,” said Greg Bowles, Chief Policy Officer at Joby. “This is a testament to our decade-long collaboration with the Department of Defence and a significant step toward deploying our dual-use technologies in the field.”
“AFWERX has partnered with Joby's team for several years with increasingly complex development and demonstration efforts of autonomy to support contested logistics missions,” said Lt. Col. Jonathan Gilbert, AFWERX Prime division chief. “REFORPAC was an opportunity to demonstrate the technology in a realistic environment and highlight the potential impact of these autonomous systems. The lessons learned from this exercise participation are vital to guiding our focus as we continue development of affordable technologies that support the needs of our Airmen.”
The U.S. Air Force currently faces a challenge in efficiently supporting low-volume, high-urgency and high-risk deliveries in large operational theatres. The REFORPAC exercise validated that a light cargo aircraft, equipped with Superpilot, can meet this demand, while freeing up larger, more costly aircraft for other missions.
Joby's Superpilot, integrated into a Cessna Caravan 208 platform, was tasked with a variety of missions. Highlights include: Mission Readiness: Superpilot demonstrated the capability to execute rapid cargo deliveries, hub-and-spoke logistics, inter-island transport, dynamic retasking, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) profiles. Operational Versatility: Flights were successfully conducted in all classes of airspace (B, C, D and uncontrolled) and under both visual and instrument flight rules. Airlift Capabilities: Superpilot piloted a total of 7,342 miles over 43.7 hours. Within the exercise, the aircraft completed six sorties, flying for 14 hours covering 2,416 miles. The campaign also included a roundtrip ferry flight of 4,925 miles, with Superpilot successfully handling a Pacific Ocean crossing, landing and taxi at destination airports.
In June 2024, Joby acquired the autonomy division of Xwing, Inc., including Superpilot, with the goal of accelerating development of autonomous flight technology in defence and commercial applications.
AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 - A renewed emphasis on helicopters and VTOL aircraft
Visitors to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 will notice a renewed emphasis on helicopters and VTOL aircraft, thanks to a newly formed partnership with the Robinson Helicopter Co. and Vertical Aviation International (VAI), a membership organization dedicated to supporting the vertical lift industry.
There will be a dedicated space in AirVenture's Aviation Gateway Park area to display aircraft to showcase innovative technology, promote vertical lift education and foster vertical lift industry job recruitment. EAA will work with partners to promote this newly created exhibit area to the vertical lift community through press releases and other communications channels, as well as at events like VAI's VERTICON trade show and conference in Atlanta in March 2026. EAA will also be working with key stakeholders internally and externally to develop more helicopter parking areas with easier access to camping.
"EAA is really excited to work with Robinson Helicopters and VAI to give our members and AirVenture visitors a closer look at the world of vertical flight," said Ren Scott, EAA's vice president of business development, sales and events. "While we've always had a welcome rotorcraft presence at our annual convention, this new partnership will enable us to showcase more GA and commercial helicopters, as well as the many fascinating innovations happening in the world of vertical lift."
VÆRIDION and Deutsche Aircraft Join Forces to Advance Sustainable Regional Aviation
VÆRIDION and Deutsche Aircraft have entered a MoU to advance sustainable regional aviation. The collaboration agreement is designed to facilitate the flight testing of VÆRIDION's cutting-edge battery technology on the D328®UpLift D-CUPL flying test bed. The partnership will also focus on sharing expertise in structural design, industrialization, and aircraft testing know-how. By combining their complementary strengths, these companies reinforce Bavaria's position as a leading hub for aviation innovation.
VÆRIDION's with its unique CS-23 all-electric Microliner-a cost-effective, short-haul commuter aircraft for 9 passengers and Deutsche Aircraft, the D328 TC-holder and CS-25 OEM, currently advancing the 40-seat D328eco®, a 100% SAF-ready regional aircraft.
Under the MoU, Deutsche Aircraft, the only Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) in Germany with full system integration capabilities, supports VÆRIDION in their pursuit of flight testing their advanced battery technology on the flying test bed UpLift D-CUPL from the German Aerospace Center (DLR).
Additionally, Deutsche Aircraft will contribute its expertise in structural design, industrialization and testing of new aircraft to the Microliner development.
This partnership aligns with both parties' ongoing commitment to revitalizing local communities and underserved routes with the most innovative aviation solutions.
“This MoU marks a pivotal moment in our journey toward emission-free regional flights,” said Markus Kochs-Kämper, CTO and Managing Director of VÆRIDION. “By uniting our technological expertise with Deutsche Aircraft's long-standing engineering excellence and design quality, we aim to accelerate the Microliner programme and provide sustainable, cost-effective air travel solutions to underserved markets in Europe and beyond.”
With both organizations based in the greater Munich area and maintaining a presence at the AirTech Campus at Oberpfaffenhofen Airport, the collaboration is firmly embedded in the German and broader European innovation ecosystem - once again showcasing the strength of aviation innovation made in Bavaria.
VÆRIDION is transforming regional air travel with the Microliner, a 100% electric aircraft designed for clean and affordable mobility on regional and underserved routes. Headquartered in Munich, with a subsidiary in Delft, we are developing an eCTOL aircraft that carries up to 9 passengers over 400 km under IFR conditions, meeting the operational and sustainability goals of regional airlines. The clean-sheet design features a glider-inspired wing with integrated modular batteries, and a multi-engine, single-propeller propulsion system. The result? The most energy efficient aircraft in its class. No science fiction, just real, achievable, zero-emission travel before 2030.
Deutsche Aircraft employs the latest technologies and best practices to ensure the highest levels of reliability, efficiency and sustainability for the D328eco. As a strategic partner for the sustainable development of regional air transport, Deutsche Aircraft is working with key players in the industry to achieve climate-neutral flights.
Turkey's Havelsan to produce UAVs in Egypt
Guy Martin www.defence web.co.za
Turkey's Havelsan and Egypt's state-owned Arab Organization for Industrialisation (AOI) have announced a partnership for the production of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Havelsan on 27 August said the agreement covers the assembly and joint production of UAVs to meet the needs of Egypt and the African market by offering price-performance solutions suitable for the region.
“We are delighted to be working with a strong partner like AOI. This partnership will bring autonomous UAV technologies to the region, increase domestic production capacity, and enable us to enter the African market strongly,” said Havelsan General Manager Dr Mehmet Akif Nacar. “As a brand and strong player that offers reliable, effective, and innovative solutions on a global scale, we will continue to develop advanced technologies and add value to regional markets.”
Major General Engineer Mukhtar Abdullatif, President of the Arab Industrialisation Authority, stated that Havelsan's experience in technology, combined with AOI's production capabilities, will support Egypt's defence and technology vision.
“This collaboration is a big step not only for production but also for technological independence and sustainable exports,” Abdullatif said.
Havelsan offers field-proven solutions with the Baha, Bulut and Bozbey unmanned aerial vehicles it has developed.
In its initial announcement, Havelsan included a video of its Baha fixed-wing vertical take-off and landing UAV, which entered service with the Turkish Armed Forces earlier this year. The electrically powered UAV has a maximum take-off weight of 28 kg with a 2 kg payload, a communications range of 50 km, and an endurance of up to 2 hours.
Established in 1982, Havelsan operates primarily active in the defence and IT sectors. Key areas of activity include Command, Control, Communication, Computer, Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance systems (C4ISR); naval combat and combat management systems; simulation and training systems, including simulators for land, naval, and air platforms; homeland security and cyber security systems; e-government applications such as election systems, land registry, cadastral systems, and judiciary networks; management information systems; reconnaissance, surveillance, and intelligence systems; and logistics support and energy management systems.
Havelsan has developed a number of unmanned air, land, and sea systems, including the tracked Barkan unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) series and wheeled Kapgan UGV. Its Baha, Bozbey, and Bulut are fixed wing vertical takeoff and landing UAVs, while the Poyraz is a quadcopter. Unmanned surface vessels include the Sancar armed unmanned vessel and Caka submersible kamikaze vessel.
Havelsan exports its defence and simulation products internationally and is one of Turkey's leading companies in both national and international defence markets. It provides services to armed forces, public and private sectors at home and abroad, and continues to expand its business globally, including in Africa.
DEUTSCHE AIRCRAFT QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER, Q3 2025
As we close the third quarter of 2025, I'm pleased to share the developments we've made at Deutsche Aircraft. From advancing sales campaigns and strengthening our supply chain to deepening strategic partnerships and growing our team, we're making steady progress towards bringing the D328eco® to market. This momentum is driven by the dedication of our people and the support of our partners. Thank you for your continued commitment.
We've increased engagement in key markets, showcasing the D328eco's commercial and multi-role capabilities. Its efficiency, versatility and sustainability continue to attract operators, particularly in North America and Africa. • Africa: With rising passenger demand and a need for modern regional aircraft, Africa is primed for a new era of connectivity. We sponsored AviaDev in Zanzibar in June and participated in the Aviation AFRICA Summit & Exhibition in Kigali in September, highlighting the short-field performance and adaptability of the D328eco. • North America: At the Regional Airline Association Leaders Conference in Washington D.C. (17-19 September), we presented the D328eco as a solution to rising costs, pilot shortages and aging fleets. • Multi-Role Presence: During DSEI UK in September, we showcased the D328MR, our multi-mission-ready platform derived from the D328eco, and explored new collaborations in the defence and special mission sectors.
This quarter, we strengthened our global supply chain with strategic partnerships to ensure the D328eco meets our goals for efficiency, sustainability and performance, including the following collaborations:We inaugurated the D328eco Forward Fuselage Assembly Line in Brazil with Akaer, a leader in aerospace and defence innovation. Akaer will lead the production of our forward fuselage, strengthening the shift development to industrialisation for the D328eco.
Together with the German Aerospace Centre (DLR), we successfully completed the Ground Vibration Test on our D328® UpLift demonstrator, validating structural dynamics with 237 sensors and more than 20 excitation points. This milestone confirms the integrity of our design to support future modifications.
Company PAL-V Clears Essential Certification Milestone
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency, EASA, has issued a 'No Technical Objection' to PAL-V, the Dutch company that developed and is commercialising the world's first FlyDrive vehicle (Flying Car).
EASA's Senior Project Certification Manager for VTOL, Volker Arnsmeier, reinforced the significance of this moment, stating: “This is the first time ever we have issued a No Technical Objection (NTO) for a FlyDrive vehicle in the Innovative Air Mobility sector-a major step toward certifying the PAL-V Liberty.”
The PAL-V Liberty vehicle has been under development since 2008. The vehicle drives on the road and can be quickly converted into an aircraft. By integrating air and road travel into one vehicle, it offers very safe door-to-door, long distance mobility.
The certification for road use was achieved in 2020, and the No Technical Objection is EASA's endorsement of PAL-V's detailed compliance demonstration program to finalise flight certification. It confirms that there are no known risks preventing full type certification.
Around the world companies are racing to develop novel aviation concepts, driven by innovations in propulsion, composites and software.
Meanwhile, various novel concepts for passenger transportation are being developed. These initiatives are enjoying strong government support in the US, Middle East and Asia. E.g. China made 'Low Altitude Economy' a national priority.
PAL-V is now the first company in the sector to reach the last of seven EASA certification phases. EASA is known to adhere to the strictest levels of safety requirements which provides PAL-V a path to global adoption once certified in Europe.
SAAF flag flown high at AFB Ysterplaat 4×4 & Outdoor Show www.defenceweb.co.za
The South African Air Force (SAAF) made a big impression on those who attended last weekend's 4×4 & Outdoor Show at Air Force Base Ysterplaat, with various static displays and a two-hour flying programme featuring fast jets and helicopters.
Saturday 19 October featured a busy midday flying display, which began with a pair of Silver Falcons PC-7 Mk IIs, followed by a Hawk Mk 120 (fresh from a Cape deployment for Exercise Ibsamar the previous week), Super Lynx naval helicopter, BK 117, and Netcare 911 Bell 407 air ambulance (which conducted a simulated medical rescue). The highlight for many was a display by the Gripen fighter jet, two of which arrived from Air Force Base Makhado on Friday 18 October. The Sunday air display followed a similar schedule, with more than half a dozen SAAF aircraft taking part.
“Despite AFB Ysterplaat being a small airbase, the intimate setup worked in favour of the audience. The close proximity of the aircraft to the crowd line allowed for an immersive experience, and the relatively modest turnout made for a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere,” Flightline Weekly reported.
The SAAF also had a number of displays covering capabilities and careers, amongst others. The SAAF Career Exhibition showcased the wide range of career possibilities within the SA Air Force, with members representing various musterings sharing their experiences, duties, and training regimens, giving the public an inside view of the day-to-day life of SA Air Force personnel.
An aircraft simulator from 5 Air Servicing Unit (at Air Force Base Waterkloof) drew large crowds into the exhibition stall during the event. Offering visitors a unique, hands-on experience, the simulators allowed people to feel the thrill of piloting an aircraft without ever leaving the ground.
In addition to the career exhibition, the SA Air Force Museum and the Friends of the Museum had a prominent stall, providing an engaging look into the rich history of the SA Air Force. Visitors were treated to stories and memorabilia from past missions, aircraft, and airmen who have contributed to South Africa's aviation legacy. The stall also encouraged public support for the museum's ongoing preservation efforts and highlighted the important role that history plays in shaping the future of the SA Air Force.
Historic aircraft from the museum also made an appearance, offering a nostalgic look at the history of aviation in South Africa. These aircraft were on static display for the public to admire up close, giving visitors a rare opportunity to see these iconic machines firsthand, Captain Nobuhle Mohami reported for AFB Ysterplaat.
“By combining the forward-looking career exhibition with a nod to the proud history of the SA Air Force, this aspect of the event was not only a platform to showcase the careers but also a celebration of the past, present, and future of the SA Air Force,” Mohami stated.
“The exhibition also provided a great platform to showcase the SA Air Force's values - Excellence in all we do, Integrity, Service before self, and Human dignity. The SA Air Force's slogan, 'Free The Eagle,' echoed throughout the event, inspiring attendees to think beyond their limits and explore the vast opportunities offered by the SA Air Force.”
1 October 1969
Concorde breaks the sound barrier for the first time.
Concorde was jointly developed and manufactured by Sud Aviation and the British Aircraft Corporation (BAC). Studies began in 1954 and a UK-France treaty followed in 1962, as the programme cost was estimated at £70 million (£1.68 billion in 2023). Construction of six prototypes began in February 1965, with the first flight from Toulouse on 2 March 1969. The market forecast was 350 aircraft, with manufacturers receiving up to 100 options from major airlines. On 9 October 1975, it received its French certificate of airworthiness, and from the UK CAA on 5 December.[4] The airliner had transatlantic range while supercruising at twice the speed of sound for 75% of the distance.
Australia, 2 km N of Moruya Airport (MYA/YMRY), Moruya, NSW: A Pilatus PC-6/B2-H4 Turbo Porter crashed after dropping eight skydivers about 2 km north of Moruya Airport (MYA/YMRY), Moruya, New South Wales.
China, Jiange County, Guangyuan, Sichuan Province: An ultralight coaxial helicopter crashed and burnt during a private flight filmed by online live stream. The aircraft was destroyed and the pilot died. News coverage indicated that the mishap aircraft was produced in Zhejiang Province, China and no supervision whatsoever has been exercised over its operation. The Zhejiang helicopter is one of the known ultralight and cheap helicopters that can be bought in China. Due to its coaxial rotor system, it doesn't have a tail.
USA, David Wayne Hooks Memorial Airport (DWH/KDWH), Houston, TX: A Cessna 340, N269WT, was destroyed when it impacted terrain during an attempted return to the departure runway at David Wayne Hooks Memorial Airport (DWH/KDWH), Houston, Texas. The two occupants onboard sustained fatal injuries.
