What happened
On the morning of 15 February 2023, a Skyleader 600 with registration ZU-TAM departed Eagle’s Creek Airfield in Gauteng for a planned flight to Brakpan Airfield. The flight was being conducted under visual meteorological conditions as a private operation.
Shortly after takeoff from Runway 08, the aircraft performed a right turn before immediately banking left to return toward the airfield. During this maneuver, the aircraft lost altitude and the wings dropped, eventually impacting an embankment near a river. The impact was followed by a post-crash fire that destroyed the aircraft. The pilot sustained fatal injuries.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the wreckage and engine components. Although the aircraft was destroyed, examination of the engine showed that it could be rotated by hand without resistance, suggesting the engine was operational at the moment of impact.
Meteorological data analyzed during the inquiry revealed a high relative humidity of 92% and a temperature of 19°C. Based on these conditions, investigators determined the engine was at significant risk of moderate icing. The investigation also noted that the pilot was attempting to fly a shortened circuit to realign with the runway, which placed the aircraft in a precarious flight attitude.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was likely carburettor icing, which reduced engine power and prompted the pilot's decision to return to the departure airfield.
- The aircraft entered a stall while the pilot was attempting to line up with the runway centerline.
- The pilot's attempt to execute a tight turn resulted in overbanking the aircraft, leading to a loss of control.
- The aircraft lacked sufficient altitude to recover from the stall once it occurred.
Safety action
- Pilots are advised to perform thorough flight planning before departure, specifically ensuring the correct interpretation of weather reports regarding icing risks.