What happened
On 2 June 2022, a Bushbaby Safari aircraft, registration ZU-JXF, was conducting a training flight at Durban Skydive Airfield in KwaZulu-Natal. The flight, operated under Part 141 regulations, involved an instructor and a student pilot performing a simulated engine failure exercise under visual meteorological conditions.
During the approach to Runway 01, the student pilot, who was at the controls, failed to initiate the flare at the appropriate time, causing the aircraft to overshoot the intended touchdown point. Recognizing that the remaining runway was insufficient for a safe landing, the instructor directed the student to perform a go-around. As the aircraft began to pitch up during the maneuver, a sudden left-side crosswind disrupted the aircraft's stability. Although the instructor attempted to intervene and regain control, the aircraft entered a stall. The resulting loss of altitude caused the aircraft to bounce on its right landing gear and strike the ground with the nose gear and propeller, eventually veering off the right side of the runway.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the credentials of the flight crew and the maintenance status of the aircraft. The instructor held a valid National Pilot Licence and a Light Sport Aircraft Instructor Grade C certificate. The student pilot held a valid Private Pilot Licence.
Regarding the aircraft, the Bushbaby Safari was within its annual inspection period, having last been serviced in February 2022. The investigation also reviewed local meteorological data from Pietermaritzburg Airport, which confirmed the presence of wind conditions consistent with the reported event. There were no injuries reported during the accident, though the aircraft suffered substantial damage.