Drama as angry SA pilot strips at Harare airport

There was drama at Zimbabwe's Harare International airport after a South African pilot Captain W Van Ginkel lost his temper and stripped down to his underpants in protest against security procedures.

Zimbabwean media reported on Wednesday that at least 90 passengers aboard South African flight 025 who were due to travel to Johannesburg on Tuesday morning were left stranded following the bizarre incident.

The Herald said the flight was delayed by more than five hours to allow another crew from Johannesburg to take over after Ginkel was barred from flying, with aviation authorities raising concern over his state of mind following the incident.

Furious protest

The incident occurred on Tuesday morning as the cabin crew went through the screening routine.

The report said the metal dictating scanner beeped as the pilot went through, prompting the authorities to ask him to remove his shoes.

But again the detectors beeped, resulting in him being asked to remove his belt, a directive that triggered a furious protest that saw him undressing to his undergarment.

Security officials subsequently moved in and arrested him.

According to the Daily News, the pilot was charged with nuisance and was fined before being released.

Another report by the newzimbabwe.com said SAA spokesperson issued a statement apologising for the debacle.