What happened
On the morning of 29 March 2024, a private flight operating under Part 94 regulations departed from Eagle’s Creek Aviation Estate in Gauteng Province. The flight, conducted in visual meteorological conditions, proceeded without incident until the aircraft, an Aeroprakt A2/2 with registration ZU-DYE, approached Runway 26 for landing.
As the pilot initiated the flare, a gust of wind from the right side of the aircraft caused it to drift toward the left. In an attempt to recover and execute a go-around, the pilot increased engine power; however, the aircraft was still configured with flaps fully extended. This resulted in an aerodynamic stall. The aircraft subsequently crashed on the left side of the N14 highway barrier, coming to rest with its right wing protruding onto the highway. There were no fatalities and the pilot sustained no injuries, though the aircraft suffered substantial damage to its propeller blades, landing gear, and wings.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the circumstances surrounding the flight and the mechanical state of the aircraft. The investigation confirmed that the Aeroprakt A22 was airworthy, with a valid Authority to Fly and no recorded defects prior to departure. The pilot held a valid National Pilot Licence and medical certificate.
Meteorological data from Lanseria International Airport indicated a light wind of 4 knots from 070° at the time of the incident. The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's performance limitations, noting that the wind component during the flight did not exceed the 14-knot crosswind limit specified in the pilot's operating handbook.