What happened
On 29 August 2025, a Bat Hawk R aircraft, registration ZU-IZR, was conducting a private surveillance flight over the Pilanesberg area. The flight, operated under Part 9 and 4 regulations, was intended to conclude at the Mankwe Game Farm private airstrip in the North West province.
During the approach to Runway 19, the pilot attempted to manage the challenges of a very short runway, which measures only approximately 200 metres in length. While maintaining an approach speed of 40 knots, the pilot configured the aircraft with three-quarters flaps rather than full flaps. As the aircraft crossed the runway threshold at roughly 6 feet above the ground, the pilot initiated an early flare. This maneuver induced a high sink rate, causing the aircraft to strike the ground heavily on the left main landing gear. The impact caused the left wheel to pivot, leading to a loss of directional control. The aircraft swerved left and spun into an adjacent sand barrier. There were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger, though the aircraft sustained substantial damage to the nose and landing gear.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the flight parameters, the aircraft's maintenance history, and the environmental conditions. The investigation confirmed that the pilot was properly licensed, medically fit, and rated for the aircraft type. The Bat Hawk R was found to be airworthy, with a valid authority-to-fly and recent maintenance completed. Weather conditions were noted as favorable, with clear visibility and light winds.
Findings
- The pilot utilized three-quarter flaps during the approach, which deviated from the Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH) recommendation to use full flaps for landings.
- An early flare was performed at 6 feet above ground level to account for the short runway, which directly resulted in an excessive sink rate.
- The hard impact caused the left main gear to pivot, triggering the loss of directional control and the subsequent excursion into the sand barrier.
- The airstrip's short length and surrounding obstacles provided a very limited area for recovery once the excursion began.