What happened
On the morning of July 20, 1999, a Parker Teenie with registration ZS-WDU was participating in taxi trials at Middelburg Aerodrome. The operation was being conducted under favorable meteorological conditions, characterized by fine weather and calm winds. During the maneuvers along the main runway, the aircraft unexpectedly lifted off the ground. Once airborne, the pilot was unable to maintain flight control, leading to a loss of directional stability. The aircraft subsequently crashed approximately 900 meters from the runway threshold, coming to rest 30 meters to the right of the centerline. The single occupant of the aircraft sustained one injury, though there were no fatalities.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the takeoff and the pilot's maneuvers. The investigation focused on the sequence of events that led to the aircraft leaving the runway surface and the subsequent loss of control. The inquiry established that the aircraft was being operated for the purpose of taxi trials and that the pilot lacked previous experience on this specific aircraft type.