What happened
On 11 December 2001, an Air Tractor AT-502B, registered as ZS-OBR, was engaged in agricultural spraying operations over a farm in the Breytenbach district. During the course of the mission, the aircraft struck an electrical conductor. The impact severed the line and caused minor damage to the engine cowling and the propeller. Following the strike, the pilot was able to maintain control of the aircraft and returned to Ermelo, where a safe landing was completed without further incident.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the circumstances surrounding the mid-air collision with the utility infrastructure. Investigators examined the environmental conditions at the time of the event, noting that the weather was clear with good visibility and a temperature of approximately 20°C. The inquiry also reviewed the operational status of the operator, confirming that the agricultural operating license was valid at the time of the occurrence. No injuries to the pilot were reported.
Findings
- The electrical conductor pole was partially hidden by trees, making it difficult to identify.
- The electrical conductor itself was visually difficult to detect because it blended into the background.
- The pilot failed to identify the presence of the power lines during the spraying maneuver.