What happened
On the morning of 23 February 2024, a Murphy Rebel Elite, registration F-PAFR, was conducting a private flight within the Limpopo province. The flight originated from Zandspruit Bush & Aero Estate, traveling to Garonga Airfield in the Makalali Game Reserve, with the intention of returning to the original departure point. The flight was operated under visual meteorological conditions.
After completing a scheduled stop for breakfast at the Makalali Game Reserve, the pilot and one passenger departed Garonga Airfield at 0817Z. During the return leg, the aircraft approached Runway 3 and was traveling at approximately 50 knots. The aircraft touched down at a speed between 40 and 45 knots. However, upon the application of brakes, the aircraft drifted to the right of the runway centerline. The pilot was unable to regain directional control, resulting in a ground loop that left the aircraft resting on its left wing. Both occupants disembarked without injury, though the aircraft sustained substantial damage to its left wing, propeller, and left landing gear.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the circumstances surrounding the loss of control. The investigation confirmed that the pilot held a valid Airline Transport Pilot Licence and a current Class 2 medical certificate. The aircraft was found to be airworthy, with a valid Certificate of Release to Service and no reported mechanical defects prior to the flight. Meteorological data from the nearby Hoedspruit Aerodrome indicated favorable flying conditions, with high visibility and light winds, leading investigators to conclude that weather was not a contributing factor.
Physical evidence at the scene, including tire marks, confirmed that the aircraft veered off the right side of the runway. Because the aircraft was written off by insurance following the incident, a detailed technical inspection of the components was not performed.
Findings
- The aircraft was likely unstable on approach to the runway.
- The pilot lost directional control immediately following touchdown.
- The aircraft veered right of the runway, causing the ground loop.