What happened
On February 13, 2001, a GA-200C Gippsland, registered as ZS-OPH, was engaged in agricultural spraying operations near Jankempdorp Military Airport. While performing the second spray run of the day, the aircraft flew over a set of power lines. During this maneuver, the pilot failed to maintain sufficient altitude, resulting in the aircraft striking a peanut crop. The impact was severe enough to sever the aircraft's main undercarriage.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the flight path and the pilot's actions during the low-level agricultural mission. The pilot, who had 385 total flying hours and 19 hours on this specific type, provided a statement regarding the sequence of events. It was established that the aircraft was operating as part of an aerial spraying detail for Orsmond Aerial Spray (PTY) LTD. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft struck the crop immediately after clearing power lines.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was that the pilot misjudged the aircraft's height following the clearance of power lines.
- The collision with the peanut crop led to the structural failure of the main undercarriage.
- There were no fatalities or injuries reported, though the pilot received medical treatment for shock following the incident.