Accident Overview
On January 23, 2020, at approximately 0853 coordinated universal time, a Cessna S550 aircraft, registration ZS-CAR, crashed into mountainous terrain while engaged in aerial surveying operations near George, South Africa. The accident resulted in fatal injuries to both crew members and one passenger, and the aircraft was destroyed.
Flight Details
The flight was operating under the civil aviation regulations of South Africa. The purpose of the flight was aerial surveying. The aircraft impacted terrain under circumstances that have not been determined.
Investigation Status
The investigation is under the jurisdiction of the South African government, specifically the Civil Aviation Authority's Accident & Incident Investigation Division. This report is based solely on information released by that authority.
Aircraft Information
The aircraft was a Cessna S550, a twin-engine business jet, with the registration ZS-CAR. It was destroyed by the impact and subsequent events.
Casualties
All three persons on board—two crew members and one passenger—were fatally injured. No further details on injuries or survival have been provided.
Location and Context
The accident site was in mountainous terrain near George, a city in the Western Cape province of South Africa. The flight was conducting aerial surveying, a task often flown at low altitudes and over rugged topography.
Conclusion
As of the release of this information, no probable cause has been determined by the investigating authorities. Further details may be obtained from the South African Civil Aviation Authority.