Accident Details
On the day of the accident, an aircraft departed Waterkloof Air Force Base, located south of Pretoria, at approximately 0745 local time. The flight was destined for Mthatha. While cruising at an altitude between 10,000 and 11,000 feet, the crew encountered poor weather conditions. In instrument meteorological conditions (IMC), the aircraft struck Giant's Castle in the Drakensberg Mountain Range and disintegrated upon impact. The wreckage was discovered a day later. All 11 individuals on board were killed.
Occupants
The crew consisted of Major K. Misrole, Captain Z.M. Smith, Sergeant B.K. Baloyi, Sergeant E. Boes, Sergeant J.M. Mamabolo, and Corporal L. Mofokeng. The passengers were Sergeant L. Sobantu, Corporal N.W. Khomo, Corporal A. Matlaila, Corporal M.J. Mthomben, and Lance-Corporal N.K. Aphane.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined that the minimum safe altitude for the area was 13,800 feet. The crew had filed a flight plan with an incorrect flight level (FL) and routing. Contributing factors identified included the weather conditions, lack of situational awareness among the aircrew, absence of a pre-flight briefing, unnecessary time pressure, and insufficient flight planning. Additionally, the aircrew failed to adhere to standard checks and procedures and did not conduct a proper risk assessment.