What happened
On February 26, 1973, at approximately 10:40 local time, a Cessna 182D aircraft with registration CR-AHG was conducting a non-commercial flight from Lourenço Marques (now Maputo) to Vilanculos. The aircraft was carrying one crew member and four passengers. While flying over the coastal area of S. Martinho do Bilene at an altitude of 5,500 feet, the right wing separated from the fuselage in mid-air. The aircraft subsequently crashed into the ground immediately thereafter.
The impact with the terrain was described as extremely violent, exceeding the structural limits of the airframe. All five occupants perished instantly. Evidence found at the scene indicated that seat belts were fastened but broken, suggesting they were under extreme tension during the crash. There was no post-impact fire.
The investigation
The accident was investigated by the Provincial Directorate of Civil Aeronautics of Mozambique. Technical experts from the State Aeronautical Services (SAC) examined the wreckage and the accident site. The debris was later transported to facilities in Lourenço Marques for reconstruction and detailed material analysis.
Weather data provided by the Mozambique Meteorological Service indicated winds of 12 knots from the south, visibility between 90 and 40 kilometers, and scattered cumulus clouds with bases between 600 and 1,000 meters. The pilot declared that he could not provide specific information regarding weather conditions encountered during the flight. Communications on frequency 118.1 MHz functioned normally until at least 30 minutes before the accident. The aircraft held a valid Certificate of Airworthiness (No. 201) expiring in June 1973.
Findings
The technical investigation ruled out several potential causes:
- No evidence of prior violent in-flight impact or heavy landing damage.
- No signs of material fatigue fractures or construction defects.
- No mechanical malfunctions reported before the incident.
The probable cause was determined to be excessive structural loads resulting from a sudden maneuver at high speed, which led to the in-flight separation of the right wing. Contributing factors included the pilot's failure to comply with applicable aeronautical regulations and the pilot's lack of experience.
Safety action
In response to the public impact of the accident, it was recommended that aeronautical authorities disseminate technical information through aviation media. Furthermore, it was advised that information regarding the circumstances and probable causes of the accident be communicated to the general public through news outlets to clarify the events.