Aircraft crash into residential building near Virginia Aerodrome

No fatalities • Durban-Virginia, South Africa • Landing (descent or approach)

A chartered flight crashed into a house after the pilot reported engine issues during the final approach to Virginia Aerodrome.

What happened

A chartered flight departed from Manzengwenya Aerodrome bound for Virginia Aerodrome (FAVG). The flight was carrying the pilot and five passengers. During the approach, the pilot communicated with the Air Traffic Controller, noting that visibility was good despite light drizzle, and received clearance to land on Runway 05.

As the aircraft reached the short final phase of the approach, air traffic control observed the plane drifting from the runway centerline and alerted the pilot. In response, the pilot reported experiencing engine problems and declared an intention to perform a go-around. During this maneuver, the aircraft veered left, moving away from the runway and over the M4 highway toward a residential neighborhood.

The aircraft subsequently struck the roof of a private residence, making initial contact with the nose and the left wing. The impact caused the aircraft to come to rest in an inverted, tail-high position. The collision resulted in extensive damage to both the house and the single-engine aircraft. The left wing failed outboard of the engine upon impact, and the nose and instrument area were crushed toward the forward passenger compartment. Significant damage was also sustained by the fuselage, engine mounts, propellers, nose wheel, and both main wing spars.

Findings

Post-accident investigations revealed that the aircraft's flight and engine controls were functioning correctly. Ground run tests performed with the engines installed showed satisfactory performance. The aircraft had a valid Certificate of Airworthiness at the time of the accident, and the most recent mandatory periodic inspection had been completed approximately 75.8 hours prior to the event.

Probable cause

The pilot attempted a go-around following reported engine issues, which led to the aircraft drifting off course and striking a residential building.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2005-08-21 Britten-Norman Islander accident near Durban-Virginia, South Africa?

A chartered flight crashed into a house after the pilot reported engine issues during the final approach to Virginia Aerodrome.

Were there any fatalities in the 2005-08-21 Britten-Norman Islander accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2005-08-21 involved a Britten-Norman Islander, registration ZS-PCJ, operated by B. D. Bandall, at Durban-Virginia, South Africa.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot attempted a go-around following reported engine issues, which led to the aircraft drifting off course and striking a residential building.

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