What happened
On the morning of 12 August 2025, a Boeing 737-800, registration ZS-ZWX, was on final approach to Runway 05 at Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport. The aircraft was operating a scheduled commercial flight from Cape Town International Airport. Simultaneously, an Embraer ERJ-135, registration ZS-ALL, was positioned on the same runway, preparing for departure.
As the ZS-ZWX approached the threshold, the aircraft was fully configured for landing. At that moment, the ZS-ALL was still rolling down the runway at a ground speed of approximately 240 knots. To prevent a potential runway incursion, the crew of the Boeing 737-800 initiated a go-around maneuver. The aircraft climbed to 8,000 feet before eventually being cleared to land safely.
The investigation
An investigation by the SACAA AIID focused on the sequence of movements on the runway. Because Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport is a non-radar, procedural airport, investigators relied on radio communications and controller statements. The inquiry established that a Piper Cherokee PA-32, operating under visual flight rules, had been directed to taxi to the holding point. To expedite traffic, the air traffic control officer (ATCO) cleared this VFR aircraft to take off, subsequently directing the ZS-ALL to line up behind it.
While the Piper Cherokee executed an early left turn after rotation, the ZS-ALL continued its takeoff roll. The investigation noted that the ZS-ALL remained on the runway as the ZS-ZWX reached the threshold, approximately 100 meters above ground level.
Findings
- The ATCO cleared slow VFR traffic ahead of scheduled departing traffic on Runway 05.
- This sequence resulted in reduced separation between the departing and landing aircraft.
- The delayed departure of the preceding VFR aircraft caused the ZS-ALL to occupy the runway during the arrival of the Boeing 737-800.
- The crew of the ZS-ZWX performed a go-around specifically to avoid a runway incursion.