What happened
On 25 July 2021, a Quad City Challenger II aircraft, registration ZU-FCP, departed Fochville Aerodrome in Gauteng for a private flight to Wingfield Private Airstrip. The flight, conducted under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) in clear weather, was intended for a recreational picnic. As the aircraft was on final approach to Runway 28, it struck powerlines positioned above a palisade fence. The impact caused the aircraft to pitch downward and crash near the runway threshold. The collision resulted in two serious injuries to the occupants, while the aircraft was destroyed.
The investigation
An investigation into the wreckage and the circumstances of the flight revealed that the engine was functioning normally and the aircraft had sufficient fuel at the time of the accident. Evidence from onboard video footage captured by a passenger showed the aircraft approaching the runway with the sun positioned in a way that created significant glare on the Perspex windscreen and side panels.
Investigators also noted that the airstrip is a private facility and not open to the public for such activities. Furthermore, the pilot was found to be operating without a valid license or the necessary ratings for the aircraft type. Records from the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) also indicated that the aircraft lacked a valid Authority to Fly (ATF).
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the collision with powerlines during the landing phase.
- A lack of situational awareness regarding the presence of the wires contributed to the strike.
- Sun glare on the aircraft's transparent surfaces likely obscured the visibility of the powerlines and supporting poles.
- The pilot was operating the aircraft without a valid pilot license or appropriate type rating.
- The aircraft was being operated without a valid Authority to Fly (ATF).
Safety action
Following the accident, it was noted that while an order for overhead wire marker spheres had been placed with ESKOM, delivery had been delayed. To prevent future occurrences, the investigation recommends that the Director of Civil Aviation engage the industry on the necessity of maintaining proper licensing and documentation. Additionally, it is recommended that regulatory divisions increase oversight and safety awareness regarding the importance of current ATF certificates and pilot licenses.