What happened
On 26 October 2023, a Speed Canard (SC01 B-160), registration ZU-MWG, was conducting a private flight from Rand Airport in Gauteng toward the Zandspruit Aero Estate in Limpopo. The flight was being operated under Part 94 regulations in clear visual meteorological conditions.
As the aircraft approached the Zandspruit Aero Estate private airstrip, it was observed flying at a low altitude. After what appeared to be a runway inspection, the pilot attempted to land on Runway 35. However, the aircraft touched down approximately 250 meters past the runway threshold. The aircraft failed to decelerate sufficiently during the landing roll, causing it to drift toward the left side of the runway. The aircraft subsequently struck a tree, which triggered a massive fuel-fed fire. The impact and subsequent flames destroyed the aircraft and resulted in one fatality.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the wreckage and the mechanical state of the aircraft. A teardown inspection of the Lycoming engine revealed no mechanical abnormalities; the cylinders, pistons, and crankshaft were all in good condition. Furthermore, analysis of the propeller blades indicated that the engine was producing a substantial amount of power at the moment of impact, suggesting no engine failure preceded the accident.
Technical records showed that the aircraft had undergone its annual inspection in early October 2023, and the pilot held a valid, validated Private Pilot Licence and a current medical certificate. Investigators also noted that the aircraft's flight logs were lost in the post-impact fire.