Cape cobra found hiding inside an aircraft
The Shocking Incident: Cape Cobra Found on Board an Aircraft
A South African pilot is being hailed as a hero after making an emergency landing in Welkom with four passengers on board when a Cape cobra was found hiding inside the aircraft. Captain Rudolf Erasmus of a Beechcraft Baron realized the venomous snake had sneaked onto the flight from Cape Town to Nelspruit and had to quickly make the decision to land the plane. He felt something cold against his back at an altitude of 9000 feet (2.7 km) and made the safe landing as soon as possible.
Cape cobras are one of the deadliest snakes in Africa, and their venom is neurotoxic, which attacks the nervous system. If left untreated, the venom can cause paralysis, respiratory failure, and even death in humans. Unfortunately, South Africa has a severe lack of antivenom, and snakebite victims only get half the amount of snake venom they need, if they receive any treatment at all.
Snake handlers Johan de Klerk and Brian Emmenis were called to the scene to try to catch the cobra, but they were unable to do so. The mielie meal was spread to lure the snake out of the aircraft, but the cold weather in Welkom might have kept the snake from leaving the plane. The SPCA has offered to transport the cobra safely back to its natural habitat.
The incident highlights the importance of safety precautions and the need for proper antivenom treatments for snakebites. The quick thinking and calm actions of Captain Rudolf Erasmus saved the lives of his passengers and himself. This harrowing experience serves as a reminder to always be vigilant and prepared for unexpected situations.
