What happened
On 1 March 2024, a Beechcraft BE20, registration ZS-TKI, was operating a private flight from O.R. Tambo International Airport to the Kalahari Gold Mine Airstrip. The flight, carrying a pilot and five passengers, proceeded normally through the takeoff and en route phases under visual meteorological conditions.
Upon arriving at the destination, the pilot performed an unmanned joining procedure and inspected the unpaved runway. While executing the landing roll on Runway 02, the aircraft experienced a sudden jolt. A subsequent inspection revealed that the right-wing tip of the Beechcraft BE20 had made contact with overgrown thorn bushes encroaching on the right edge of the runway. There were no injuries to the occupants, though the aircraft sustained minor damage.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the aircraft's airworthiness and the pilot's credentials. The investigation confirmed the pilot was properly licensed and experienced, and the aircraft held a valid Certificate of Airworthiness. Maintenance records indicated the aircraft had been serviced by an approved organization and was within its inspection intervals.
Investigators also reviewed the runway conditions and the administrative processes preceding the flight. While the pilot had signed an indemnity form with the airstrip manager, the investigation noted that the presence of the encroaching vegetation was not brought to the pilot's attention during that process.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was that the aircraft landed off-center toward the right side of the runway, resulting in the wingtip striking the vegetation.
- Overgrown thorn bushes were extending into the runway area from the right edge.
- Airfield management did not notify the pilot of the overgrown vegetation during the pre-flight indemnity signing.
- Weather conditions were clear and were not a contributing factor to the event.