What happened
On the evening of September 27, 2000, a Beech 1900D, registered ZS-OKM, was preparing for a ferry flight from FADN to FAVG. The aircraft, operated by National Airways Corporation (PTY) LTD, was initially parked at bay number 10 on the apron. After receiving clearance to taxi toward runway 06, the aircraft began its movement.
As the aircraft entered taxiway B, a collision occurred between the aircraft's right-hand wing and an ACSA service bus. While the incident resulted in no injuries to anyone on board or in the bus, the impact caused substantial damage to the aircraft.
The investigation
Investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the collision on the taxiway. The pilot reported that the aircraft was not displaying any beacon or navigation lights at the time of the impact. Following the accident, the driver of the service bus was removed from the scene to undergo an alcohol blood test. To restore the aircraft to a flightworthy state, temporary repairs were performed on-site, allowing the aircraft to complete its flight to NAC Virginia for more extensive maintenance.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the collision with an ACSA service bus.
- The aircraft was operating without active beacon or external lights during the taxi phase.