What happened
On 10 February 2024, a private flight operating under Part 94 regulations transitioned from Morningstar Airfield to Klipfontein Airfield in the Western Cape. The pilot of the Vans RV-7, registration ZU-FUR, performed a pre-flight inspection that revealed no issues before departing under visual meteorological conditions.
Upon arriving at Klipfontein Airfield, the pilot prepared for an approach on Runway 26. The approach was executed at a speed of 75 knots with flaps set to 40 degrees, which aligned with the manufacturer's recommended landing speeds. While the aircraft touched down on the runway threshold, the pilot encountered difficulties during the landing roll. Approximately 200 metres down the dirt strip, the pilot lost directional control, causing the aircraft to ground loop to the left. During this maneuver, the left wing tip struck the ground before the aircraft came to a halt. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, though the pilot was able to exit the aircraft without injury.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the aircraft's maintenance history and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The investigation confirmed that the Vans RV-7 was airworthy and had been maintained according to approved procedures, with the last annual inspection completed only 6.8 hours prior to the event. The pilot held a valid Private Pilot Licence with the appropriate type rating and a current medical certificate.
Weather data indicated a wind speed of 11 knots from 180 degrees, resulting in a crosswind component during the landing. However, investigators determined that the weather conditions were not a contributing factor to the accident.