Summary
On Friday, January 10, 2020, at approximately 05:42 UTC, a Tanarg Neo Microlight, registration 9J-YVT, operated by Batoka Sky Limited, crashed while attempting a simulated emergency landing on a dirt road near Livingstone, Zambia. The aircraft struck an 11 kV power line, resulting in a loss of control and a crash approximately 15 meters from the power lines. One crew member died on impact, and the other sustained minor injuries. The aircraft was substantially damaged; no post-crash fire occurred.
History of Flight
The microlight departed from Maramba Aerodrome (Batoka Sky Airfield) for a line check and performance check in emergency situations. The crew consisted of the pilot-in-command (P1) and an observer pilot (P2). After completing line checks near the airfield, they proceeded to practice emergency procedures away from the field. The pilots had discussed using a main road as an emergency landing zone. After a practice approach and go-around, they selected a dirt road leading to United Air Charter as a last resort option.
During a simulated engine failure, the aircraft descended to approximately 400–500 feet AGL. As they approached the dirt road, the observer pilot noted the landing area appeared too confined and advised a go-around. The pilot wanted to descend further to confirm. At approximately 200 feet AGL, the observer saw 11 kV ZESCO power lines crossing the road and yelled "Full Power." There was a delayed response, and the microlight's right main landing gear hooked the power line, pitching the aircraft forward and initiating an uncontrolled spin. The aircraft crashed upside down in bushes 15 meters ahead of the power lines.
Injuries and Damage
The pilot-in-command (P1) was fatally injured. The observer pilot (P2) suffered minor injuries to the face and left leg. The microlight sustained substantial damage, including damage to the trike, fairings, propeller blades, and wing structure. The engine, a Rotax 912 Series UL, had 35 hours 15 minutes total time at the time of the accident. Weight and center of gravity were within limits. The aircraft had 40 liters of AVGAS 100LL fuel on board.
Investigation Findings
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Board determined the cause of the accident was the execution of a simulated emergency landing in hazardous conditions. Other contributory and latent factors were identified but not specified in the source. The investigation noted no anomalies in the pre-flight check, and no flight plan had been filed. Weather at the time was CAVOK with light winds.