What happened
On June 2, 2001, at approximately 14:45Z, a DH82A aircraft, registration ZS-XRF, was involved in an accident during a solo flight at FALA. The pilot, who had recently finished conversion training on this specific aircraft type, was performing a series of touch-and-go landings. During one of these maneuvers, the pilot lost directional control of the aircraft. This loss of control led to a collision with a fence located on the western side of the apron, situated west of the NAC hangars.
While there were no fatalities or injuries reported, the impact resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the loss of control and the aircraft's operational status. The investigation confirmed that the weather conditions at the time of the accident were fine, though a wind from 330 degrees at 10 to 15 knots was present. The aircraft had recently undergone a complete rebuild, having flown only 7.7 hours since its last maintenance interval. Records indicated that the aircraft was being maintained according to prescribed schedules, with the next maintenance check not due until February 2002.
Findings
Several factors contributed to the loss of directional control during the takeoff phase following the touch-and-go landing. The investigation identified the pilot's lack of experience with tail-wheel aircraft as a significant factor, noting that this was the pilot's first time operating a tail-wheel type aircraft. Additionally, the prevailing cross-wind conditions likely played a role in the pilot's inability to maintain the aircraft's heading during the maneuver.