The pilot flying Zimbabwean businessman, Wicknell Chivayo reportedly warned that he was struggling to navigate severe weather conditions shortly before communication with the helicopter was lost.

The incident occurred on September 30, 2026, as two helicopters carrying Chivayo and members of his entourage were returning from a trip.

A security aide travelling in the second helicopter said the weather deteriorated during the journey, prompting the pilot carrying Chivayo to suggest an alternative route through Bromley.

According to the aide, communication between the two aircraft continued as the pilots attempted to navigate the worsening conditions.

He said Chivayo’s pilot repeatedly reported difficulties with the weather, including telling the other aircraft that he was still inside the cloud and had not been able to get out.

The aide was quoted by ZimLive as saying the helicopter’s last confirmed position was over Surrey.

He said his own pilot later informed the other aircraft that they were about 10 minutes from their destination.

However, concern arose when Chivayo’s pilot reportedly responded by asking, “Which destination?”

The other pilot replied that they were heading towards Marondera, but received no further response.

The aide said all communication with Chivayo’s helicopter was subsequently lost.

The aircraft later crashed, killing everyone on board, including Chivayo.

The aide also disputed earlier reports that six people died in the incident, saying five people were killed.

Chivayo, a prominent Zimbabwean businessman, was among those who died in the crash, which has attracted widespread attention in the country.

The account from the security aide provides details of the reported exchange between the two pilots in the moments before contact with the helicopter was lost.