What happened
On the morning of 14 September 2024, a B & F Technik Polaris FK14 B2 (registration ZU-FBG) was participating in a Speed Rally Competition at Brits Aerodrome in the North West Province. The flight, operated under private Part 94 regulations, included a pilot and one passenger. After a successful initial flight segment, the aircraft returned to the aerodrome for landing on Runway 02.
During the final approach at approximately 56 knots, the aircraft encountered a sudden increase in sink rate. This instability was caused by wind shear. The resulting hard impact with the runway prompted the pilot to execute an immediate go-around. During the subsequent second landing attempt, the aircraft's main landing gear struts failed as it rolled down the runway. The aircraft veered off the right side of the runway before coming to a halt. There were 0 fatalities and 0 injuries reported, though the aircraft sustained substantial damage to the fuselage bottom and landing gear.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the meteorological conditions and aircraft maintenance records. Investigators confirmed the pilot held a valid Commercial Pilot Licence and was appropriately rated for the aircraft type. The aircraft's maintenance history showed a recent annual inspection completed in August 2024, and all required certificates, including the Authority-to-Fly, were valid at the time of the event.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the occurrence of wind shear during the initial approach, which induced a high sink rate and a hard landing.
- The mechanical failure of the main landing gear struts occurred during the landing roll of the second attempt.
- Meteorological data from nearby Lanseria International Airport confirmed highly variable surface winds, which is a condition consistent with the presence of wind shear.