Fatal Crash of Homebuilt Focke Wulf FW 190 Replica Near Libanon

Casualties unknown • ON SHORT FINALS FOR RWY 27 ON THE FARM, ZA

A single-seat Focke Wulf FW 190 replica crashed into a field near the N12 highway on 14 August 1999, resulting in the death of the pilot.

What happened

On 14 August 1999, a Focke Wulf FW 190 replica, a half-scale homebuilt single-seater registered as ZU-AJR, departed from Baragwanath Aerodrome for a private flight toward the Libanon and Westonaria area. During the flight, the aircraft was seen flying at a low altitude while circling the Libanon mine residential area. After passing over the area, the pilot initiated a left-hand turn, crossing the N1 12 main road heading southeast. During this maneuver, the right wing suddenly dropped, causing the aircraft to crash into an open field adjacent to the highway. The impact triggered a fire that completely destroyed the aircraft.

The investigation

Investigators examined the circumstances of the flight and the wreckage at the site near the Libanon turn-off from the N12. The investigation established that the weather conditions at the time of the accident were clear with a temperature of 24°C. The aircraft was a private, single-seat homebuilt model. The pilot, who held a valid private pilot license, had a total of 2.25 hours of experience on this specific type of aircraft.

Findings

  • The pilot was distracted by individuals on the ground while flying over the residential area.
  • The aircraft entered a stall during a left-hand turn.
  • The maneuver was performed at a low airspeed and at an altitude too low to allow for recovery.
  • The crash resulted in one fatality and no other injuries.

Probable cause

The pilot became distracted by people on the ground, leading to a stall during a low-altitude, low-speed left-hand turn from which recovery was impossible.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1999-08-14 PERDEBY TRIKE accident near ON SHORT FINALS FOR RWY 27 ON THE FARM, ZA?

A single-seat Focke Wulf FW 190 replica crashed into a field near the N12 highway on 14 August 1999, resulting in the death of the pilot.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1999-08-14 involved a PERDEBY TRIKE, registration ZU-AJR, at ON SHORT FINALS FOR RWY 27 ON THE FARM, ZA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot became distracted by people on the ground, leading to a stall during a low-altitude, low-speed left-hand turn from which recovery was impossible.

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