What happened
On an instrument flight plan, an aircraft departed from Queenstown Aerodrome (FAQT) at 1329Z, bound for Plettenberg Bay Aerodrome (FAPG). The flight was being conducted under Part 91 of the Civil Aviation Regulations. The aircraft was carrying a total of nine people, consisting of two crew members and seven passengers. Although the flight was scheduled to arrive at its destination at 1430Z, the aircraft failed to arrive, and the crew did not notify authorities to cancel the flight plan.
Following the failure to arrive, the Aeronautical Rescue Co-ordination Centre (ARCC) initiated an official search at approximately 1600Z. Initial land-based efforts focused on the Robberg Nature Reserve, though visibility was severely hampered by nighttime conditions and heavy mist. While a maritime search was restricted during the night, the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) deployed vessels the following morning. During subsequent foot patrols along the western shoreline of the reserve, rescuers discovered floating debris.
On 11 February 2011, the South African Navy assisted in the recovery efforts by using side scan sonar to inspect the seabed for the remains of the aircraft. The accident resulted in nine fatalities, with all occupants on board the aircraft being fatally injured.
Findings
- The search for the aircraft was significantly delayed by dense mist and nighttime visibility constraints during the initial land-based phase.