What happened
On 17 August 2001, a PZL M18 Dromader, registered as ZS-NLR, was engaged in firefighting operations near Elandshoogte. The aircraft, operated by the Forest Fire Association, had departed from Nelspruit and was attempting to land on Runway 09 at Elandshoogte. Upon touchdown, the pilot lost directional control of the aircraft, causing it to veer off the left side of the runway and subsequently overturn.
While the aircraft suffered significant structural damage—specifically to the propeller, rudder, fin, and the left-hand wing—there were no fatalities and no serious injuries reported. The pilot sustained only minor lacerations to the hands and head.
The investigation
Investigators examined the environmental conditions and the aircraft's movement during the landing phase. At the time of the occurrence, meteorological data indicated a south-westerly wind with gusts reaching 30 knots. The investigation focused on the aircraft's behavior immediately following its contact with the runway surface.
Findings
way The investigation established that the primary factor in the accident was that the pilot landed with a strong tailwind component. This wind condition contributed to the loss of directional control, leading to the runway excursion and the eventual overturning of the aircraft.