Accident Details
On 2 April 2000 at 1200Z, a Piper J3C-65 Cub (registration ZS-NFP) was involved in an accident at Kitty Hawk Aerodrome, South Africa. The aircraft was operated as a private flight by a pilot holding a valid private pilot license with 313.3 total flying hours, including 187.7 hours on type. The weather was fine with wind from 360° at 5–10 knots and temperature +27°C.
Flight History
The pilot and a passenger were conducting a pleasure flight in the vicinity of Kitty Hawk Aerodrome. While on the downwind leg for Runway 01, the pilot suddenly encountered wind shear. This caused a loss of control, and the right-hand wing of the aircraft struck a tree. The aircraft then impacted the ground.
Injuries
Both occupants sustained minor injuries and were transported to a hospital. No fatalities occurred.
Probable Cause
The South African Civil Aviation Authority stated the probable cause as the pilot’s disregard for safe standard operating procedures by flying the aircraft too low and slow while positioned on downwind.