What happened
On the morning of 4 April 2022, a Schweizer (Hughes) 269C helicopter, registration ZT-RDS, was conducting a private delivery flight from Kromhoek Farm in Odendaalsrus to Rockridge Farm in Parys, Free State. The mission involved delivering milk samples to a local farm owner.
During the approach to the farm, the pilot attempted to land in an open area near a dairy factory. A witness observed the aircraft descending with unstable tail movement. While attempting to reposition for a better landing spot, the helicopter's main rotor blades struck overhead electrical cables. The impact caused the rotor blades to bend and severed the aircraft's tail boom. The resulting loss of control led to a crash that destroyed the aircraft. The pilot sustained fatal injuries, while one person on the ground was also killed.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the wreckage and the circumstances surrounding the flight. Investigators found the helicopter lying on its left side, with the severed tail section resting on the roof of a nearby factory. The investigation confirmed that the farm lacked a dedicated helipad or prepared landing zone.
Regarding the pilot's credentials, the investigation established that the pilot was operating with an expired medical certificate and an expired pilot licence. However, the aircraft itself was found to be within its operating weight limits, and maintenance records indicated no outstanding defects or overdue inspections at the time of the accident.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was a medical condition experienced by the pilot, which resulted in sudden incapacitation.
- The pilot's incapacitation led to the loss of aircraft control and the subsequent impact with power lines.
- The pilot was operating the aircraft without a valid medical certificate or a valid pilot licence.
- The landing site was an unprepared area without a designated helipad.