What happened
On 12 May 2023, an Arace Sirin unmanned aircraft, registered ZT-XXC, was performing an aerial survey at the Lonmin Mine near Marikuna, North West province. The mission was being conducted under beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) regulations as part of a Part 101 operation.
The flight began at 0003Z following successful pre-flight inspections, with the aircraft departing with 99% battery power. The surveillance mission proceeded without incident for approximately 36 minutes. However, when the pilot initiated the return-to-launch (RTL) command, a critical error occurred during the final approach. The pilot discovered that the aircraft was operating in manual speed mode rather than an automated mode, resulting in a loss of control. The UAS struck a fence, causing minor damage to the landing gear and propellers. No injuries to persons on the ground were reported.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the operational and regulatory status of the flight and the aircraft. The investigation confirmed that the pilot held a valid Remote Pilot Licence (RPL) with the necessary BVLOS rating and a current medical certificate. The Arace Sirin was also properly documented, possessing a valid Unmanned Aircraft Systems Letter of Approval (LOA) and a current Certificate of Registration.
Technical records indicated that the aircraft had undergone a mandatory periodic inspection in April 2023, roughly 62 minutes prior to the accident. The investigation also verified that the operator held a valid Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operating Certificate (ROC) and that the remote maintenance technician responsible for recent inspections was properly licensed.