M-Net’s upcoming three-part documentary series, Helderberg, seeks to shed light on these long-standing questions and offer a fresh perspective on the Helderberg tragedy.

• Premiering on 15 May 2025 at 8pm, Helderberg promises to provide an in-depth exploration of the events surrounding the crash, as well as the aftermath that has gripped both South Africa and the global aviation community for over 37 years.
• In the early hours of 28 November 1987, South Africa was struck by what would become its worst-ever commercial aviation disaster.
• South African Airways Flight SA 295, a Boeing 747 named ‘Helderberg,’ was en route from Taipei to Johannesburg when it lost contact with Mauritian air traffic control just after midnight.
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The Helderberg had started its approach to Plaisance Airport on the island of Mauritius when communication was abruptly severed. Despite efforts to re-establish contact, the aircraft was never heard from again. Moments later, an emergency was declared, but by then, South Africa had already been plunged into grief, as the tragedy claimed the lives of all 159 passengers and crew members aboard.

Nearly four decades later, the mystery surrounding the cause of the fire that led to the crash of Flight SA 295 remains unresolved. While it was eventually determined that a fire had broken out in the cargo hold, the precise cause of the blaze and the events that followed continue to fuel speculation and controversy. What led to the sudden and catastrophic failure of the aircraft? Was it a tragic accident, or was something more sinister at play?

The tragedy became a subject of intense investigation. Immediately following the crash, the retrieval of the wreckage took place from a depth that surpassed even that of the Titanic’s final resting place. Both an international investigation and a local inquiry were conducted, but questions remained unanswered. Over the years, numerous private investigations have attempted to uncover the truth, with many offering new theories and claims. These include supposed deathbed confessions, as well as modern-day hypotheses that continue to keep the flames of uncertainty burning. Was the crash the result of negligence, a technical malfunction, or perhaps even an act of treachery?

Through a blend of first-hand accounts and expert insights, Helderberg delves deeper into the investigation and the decades that have passed since that fateful night. The documentary features interviews with key figures involved in the investigation, including former Department of Civil Aviation Lead Investigator, Rennie van Zyl, and renowned forensic scientist, Dr. David Klatzow. Also contributing to the investigation are authors Mark D. Young and Steven Webb, who have written extensively on the tragedy, as well as former South African Airways staff members and the family members of the victims, all of whom are still searching for the truth.

The documentary will explore the multiple phases of the investigation that followed the crash, including the initial search and rescue operation, the complex process of recovering the wreckage from the depths of the Indian Ocean, and the various inquiries and hearings that have been held in the years since. Notably, one of the most significant chapters in the aftermath of the tragedy was the special hearing held by South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) in the late 1990s. During the TRC’s hearings, testimonies were given, and new evidence was presented, adding further layers of complexity to the mystery.

One of the most compelling aspects of Helderberg is its examination of the ongoing speculation and competing theories that have surrounded the disaster. Over the years, several new pieces of information have come to light, with some individuals even claiming to have knowledge of what truly caused the crash. Deathbed confessions from former investigators, whistleblowers, and other insiders have further fueled the belief that there is more to the story than the official findings have revealed.

The documentary also delves into the possibility of sabotage or deliberate actions leading to the fire. Theories suggesting that the cargo hold may have contained dangerous or illicit materials have been put forward, but no definitive evidence has ever been produced to support these claims. As the investigation continues to unfold, Helderberg examines the personal and emotional toll of the tragedy, focusing not only on the technical and investigative aspects but also on the profound impact the disaster had on the families of the victims and the broader South African public.

In addition to the insights provided by those directly involved in the investigation, the documentary series will feature expert commentary from aviation analysts, legal experts, and historians, all of whom bring unique perspectives to the table. Through this comprehensive approach, Helderberg aims to provide viewers with a deeper understanding of the events leading up to the crash, the impact it had on the people involved, and the ongoing quest for closure and truth.

The Helderberg documentary is produced by Relish Media and IdeaCandy, with the first episode set to air on M-Net (DStv Channel 101) from 15 May 2025 at 8pm. For those unable to watch the series live, it will also be available on DStv Catch Up and DStv Stream.

As the documentary series unfolds, it promises to bring us closer to answering the long-standing question: what truly happened to South African Airways Flight SA 295? Will the truth finally be revealed, or will the mystery of the Helderberg remain unsolved for generations to come? One thing is certain: the search for answers continues.

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