What happened
On the morning of 12 December 2025, a pilot was conducting a demonstration flight in a Piper PA-36-285 Pawnee Brave, registration ZS-LUG, to showcase its agricultural capabilities to a prospective buyer. The flight originated from Kroonstad Airfield (FAKS) in the Free State province, intended for a series of spray runs at Eden Farm.
After completing an initial spray pass at a 40-litre per hectare rate, the pilot climbed to approximately 100 feet above ground level. While attempting to adjust the spray boom controls to a 50-litre per .hectare setting, the pilot's attention shifted away from the flight controls. During this period of distraction, the aircraft entered a steep, uncontrolled descent. The pilot attempted to recover by pulling back on the control column, but the aircraft struck the ground with its left wing first. The impact caused the wing to break, and the aircraft slid 102 metres across the field. The pilot sustained serious injuries, and the aircraft was destroyed.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the wreckage and the pilot's records. The investigation confirmed that the pilot held a valid Commercial Pilot Licence and a Class 1 medical certificate. The aircraft was well-maintained, having undergone a mandatory periodic inspection only 11.3 hours prior to the accident.
Technical analysis of the engine and propeller showed no evidence of mechanical failure. Specifically, the marks on the propeller blades indicated that the engine was delivering significant power at the moment of impact. Meteorological conditions were clear and did not contribute to the event.