What happened
On 27 October 2021, a Mavic 2 Pro drone, registered as ZT-UVW, was being used for commercial surveillance during a controlled explosion in Graspan, Mpumalanga. The pilot was positioned to record a large-scale blast involving approximately 109,609 cubic meters of material. While the aircraft was hovering at 400 feet above ground level to capture video of the operation, a rock was ejected from the blast site and struck the drone. The impact likely dislodged the battery, causing an immediate loss of connectivity. Following the strike, the drone descended into the blast zone, where it was presumed to be buried under the newly displaced rubble. No injuries were reported during the incident.
The investigation
The investigation, conducted by the SACAA AIID based on information provided by the operator, established that the flight was part of a Part 101 commercial operation. At the time of the accident, weather conditions were favorable, with clear visibility and light winds. The aircraft had completed 286 total flight hours and had undergone a mandatory periodic inspection approximately three months prior to the event. The investigation confirmed that the drone was operating in uncontrolled airspace and that the operator had obtained necessary permission from the landowner to fly over the site.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was a rock propelled by the blast explosion striking the aircraft.
- The impact caused a loss of power or connectivity, leading to the destruction of the drone.
- The pilot misjudged the necessary vertical clearance required to remain safe from flying debris during the blasting process.