What happened
On 8 October 2024, a private flight operating under Part 94 regulations departed from Panorama Aerodrome, Gauteng, bound for Thabazimbi Aerodrome (FATI) in Limpopo. The pilot of the Sling 2, registration ZU-TAE, reported a routine flight with no issues during the initial departure. Upon arriving at FATI, the pilot obtained a weather update from another pilot on the field, noting north-westerly winds with gusts.
During the final approach to runway 07, with flaps set to 40 degrees, the aircraft was struck by a gust from the left. In an attempt to recover, the pilot applied full power to initiate a go-around. However, the aircraft briefly climbed before losing altitude and impacting the ground. The aircraft then veered left, skidding approximately 60 metres before coming to a stop. The pilot escaped the 0 fatalities and 0 injuries without harm, though the aircraft suffered substantial damage to the engine cowling, propeller blades, and left wing.
The investigation
The SACAA AIID investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance records, the pilot's credentials, and meteorological data. The investigation confirmed that the pilot held a valid Private Pilot Licence and a current medical certificate. The Sling 2 was also found to be in compliance with maintenance requirements, with a valid authority-to-fly and recent periodic inspections.
Investigators analyzed the wind conditions using both the pilot's reported information and official South African Weather Service data. This analysis revealed that the wind conditions at the time of the accident were significantly more severe than the aircraft's operational limits.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the loss of directional control during the landing phase due to excessive crosswind conditions.
- The calculated crosswind component was approximately 18 knots, which exceeded the aircraft's maximum demonstrated crosswind limit of 15 knots.
- Turbulent surface winds acted as a contributing factor to the loss of control.
- The aircraft veered left, causing the left wing tip to strike the ground.