What happened
On 11 June 2022, a Vans Aircraft RV 9, registration ZU-IBX, was conducting a private navigational flight from Richmond Airfield to Bingelela Private Airstrip in KwaZulu-Natal. The flight, carrying a pilot and one passenger, proceeded normally through the climb phase under clear daylight conditions.
During the approach to Bingelela, the aircraft maintained a speed between 65 and 70 knots with full flaps. Upon attempting to land, the aircraft bounced and floated along the runway. Realizing that the remaining runway length was insufficient for a safe stop, the pilot initiated a go-around maneuver near the end of the strip.
As the pilot attempted to climb over rising terrain at the end of the runway, the aircraft was unable to maintain a positive rate of climb. The pilot utilized a steep angle of attack to try and clear the obstacle, but the maneuver resulted in a loss of airspeed. The aircraft subsequently impacted a hill approximately 20 meters from the point of first contact. Both occupants sustained minor injuries, though the aircraft suffered substantial damage to its engine cowling, propeller, flaps, and undercarriage.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the flight parameters and aircraft maintenance records. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft's takeoff weight and center of gravity were within acceptable limits. Maintenance records showed the last mandatory periodic inspection had been completed approximately 40 hours prior to the accident.
Investigators also reviewed the approach dynamics, noting that the initial touchdown was unstable due to the bounce and subsequent float. The investigation also noted that while the Pilot's Operating Handbook specifies a speed limit for flap extension, the specific flap degrees are not explicitly defined in the manual.