What happened
On the morning of 6 August 2022, a pilot operating a Kopke GJ, GK-1 (registration ZU-BLJ) was conducting a private flight at Bethlehem Aerodrome in the Free State province. The flight was being performed under Part 94 regulations, and the pilot was performing circuit work for the first time in this specific aircraft type.
During the left-hand circuit pattern, the pilot initiated a landing on Runway 11. While on short final approach, the aircraft's altitude was significantly low. As the aircraft passed over Preekstoel Road, the main landing gear struck a moving SUV traveling in a south-easterly direction. Although the pilot managed to maintain control and complete the landing on the runway, the impact caused the aircraft to lose directional control and veer off the right side of the runway.
While there were no fatalities or injuries to the pilot or the driver, the collision resulted in substantial damage to both the aircraft and the vehicle. The driver of the SUV was reported to be severely traumatized by the event.
The investigation
The SACAA AIID investigation established that the pilot was a highly experienced commercial pilot with nearly 6,500 flying hours, though they had only 0.3 hours of experience on the GK-1 model. Weather conditions at the time were clear with excellent visibility and light winds.
Investigators confirmed that the aircraft's maintenance records were up to date, with the most recent annual inspection completed earlier that year. The investigation focused on the flight path and the proximity of the roadway to the runway threshold.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was that the aircraft was flying at an extremely low altitude during its approach to Runway 11.
- This low approach caused the main landing gear to make contact with a vehicle traveling on Preekstoel Road.
- The pilot failed to adhere to regulations regarding the prevention of endangering persons or property.
- The impact with the vehicle caused significant structural damage to the aircraft's landing gear and wings.
Safety action
- It is recommended that the Dihlabeng Municipality evaluate the installation of road signage on Preekstoel Road to alert motorists to the potential for low-flying aircraft.