Accident details
On April 26, 2008, at approximately 0753 UTC, a Robinson R44 helicopter (registration ZS-PWG) operated by National Airways Corporation was conducting an aerial observation flight. During takeoff from Rand Aerodrome in Germiston, South Africa, the helicopter struck a hangar and then collided with the ground. The pilot and passenger sustained fatal injuries. The aircraft was destroyed by impact forces and a post-crash fire. The flight was local in nature.
Investigation
The investigation is being conducted by the South Africa Civil Aviation Authority. Under the provisions of ICAO Annex 13, the NTSB designated a U.S. Accredited Representative as the State of manufacture. All inquiries should be directed to the Civil Aviation Authority's Accidents and Incidents Investigation Division.