What happened
On the afternoon of 9 January 2026, a Piper PA-25-235, registration ZS-ICE, was conducting a positioning flight in the Limpopo province. The flight originated from Tzyfontein Farm near Mokopane and was destined for a farm in the Sterkriver District. The aircraft was being moved to the destination in preparation for a scheduled maize crop-spraying operation the following day.
During the landing phase on a grass runway at Portion 2 Schaaphok 279 Farm, a warthog emerged from a nearby maize field and crossed the path of the aircraft. The animal passed within approximately 10 to 15 meters of the plane. In an attempt to avoid a collision with the animal, the pilot applied the right brake. This maneuver caused the aircraft to swerve to the right, leading the right wing to strike a stack of sand-filled tyres used as fence anchors. The impact triggered a ground loop, during which the tail section struck a perimeter fence. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, including impact to the right wing and minor damage to the left wing.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the circumstances surrounding the incident, noting that the flight was operating under visual meteorological conditions (VMC) as a private (Part 91) operation. The investigation confirmed that the pilot held a valid Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) and a current Class 1 medical certificate.
Regarding the aircraft, the investigation found that ZS-ICE was well-maintained, with the most recent maintenance inspection completed in October 2025. The aircraft was equipped with an agricultural spray system intended for its upcoming mission. The investigation also noted that the pilot was landing at this specific farm location for the first time.