What happened
While operating a flight from Livingston toward Jo'burg-Palmietfontein Airport, the crew encountered severe weather and low visibility. Due to these conditions, the pilot lost situational awareness regarding the aircraft's position. In an attempt to find safer conditions, the captain elected to divert the flight to Carolina Airport.
During the final approach at the diversion airfield, the aircraft type was flying at an insufficient altitude. The plane struck a rock outcrop approximately 1.25 miles from the runway, resulting in a crash. Despite the impact, all 19 occupants were able to evacuate the wreckage without injury. The aircraft sustained damage that rendered it a total loss.
Findings
Investigations determined that the primary factor was a navigational error by the captain, who followed an incorrect course based on visual assumptions of landmarks rather than verified data. Specifically, the pilot failed to verify his ground speed, which would have revealed discrepancies in his estimated position between Mahalapye and Warmbaths.
Other contributing factors included:
- A failure to notify the Pietersburg Aeradio Station and Beacon regarding the flight's status.
- Significant radio interference caused by electrical storms in the Rand region on 15 September.
- An attempt to land at an unidentified, unlit airfield without knowing the correct approach altitude.