What happened
On 10 October 2024, a private flight departing from Kimberley Aerodrome (FAKM) in the Northern Cape resulted in substantial damage to a Yak 52 aircraft, registration ZU-CWY. The flight, operated under Part 94 regulations, was intended to proceed to De Aar Aerodrome (FADA).
During the taxi phase, the pilot was instructed to backtrack on Runway 02. While moving along the runway, the aircraft encountered a strong tailwind. The pilot reported that the brakes felt increasingly ineffective during the taxi. As the aircraft approached the threshold of Runway 02, the pilot attempted a 180-degree left turn. To manage the high speed, the pilot shut down the engine; however, the brakes and rudder pedals failed to provide sufficient control. Consequently, the aircraft careered westward, eventually exiting the turning area and striking a perimeter fence. There were no fatalities and no injuries to the pilot or the passenger.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the circumstances surrounding the loss of control during the ground maneuver. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft was airworthy and had undergone its annual inspection earlier that year. Investigators reviewed the weather conditions, which noted significant wind activity, including gusts up to 26 knots. The investigation also looked into the pilot's operational procedures and the mechanical state of the braking system during the high-speed backtrack.
Findings
- The pilot backtracked the aircraft for over 2 kilometers at an excessive speed due to the influence of a strong tailwind.
- This high-speed taxi resulted in brake overheating, which caused the braking system to become ineffective.
- The pilot's inability to maintain the recommended taxi speed contributed to the loss of deceleration capability.
- The aircraft's momentum and the lack of effective braking prevented the completion of the intended left turn, leading to the impact with the fence.