What happened
On the afternoon of 28 October 2021, a pilot operating a Rand KR-2 with registration ZS-UKU departed from Kitty Hawk Aerodrome (FAKT) in Gauteng for a private flight. The flight, conducted under visual meteorological conditions, initially involved several aerobatic maneuvers within a designated aerobatic box west of the aerodrome.
As the aircraft transitioned south, the pilot executed a high-speed left turn at approximately 500 feet above ground level. During this maneuver, the right wing separated from the aircraft in-flight. The loss of the wing caused the aircraft to enter a rapid descent, crashing at Tierpo and destroying the aircraft. The pilot sustained fatal injuries in the impact.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the wreckage and the aircraft's technical records. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft was airworthy and had undergone a recent 100-hour annual inspection. The pilot was found to be appropriately licensed with the necessary type ratings and a valid medical certificate.
Technical analysis focused on the failed right-wing aileron. Investigators examined the structural integrity of the wing and the control surface components to determine why the wing spar failed during the turn.