What happened
On September 21, 2001, a Druine Turbulent, registration ZS-UAO, was conducting a flight from Nigel to Springs. The pilot intended to perform approximately six circuits and landings at Springs. During the second landing sequence, specifically following a touch-and-go maneuver, the aircraft experienced a loss of directional control. As the aircraft moved along the runway, the undercarriage struck a ridge of dirt, which caused the aircraft to tip forward onto its nose. The impact resulted in extensive damage to the airframe. No injuries were reported following the incident.
The investigation
Investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the aircraft's handling and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The weather was reported as fine, though winds were noted at 035 degrees at 5 to 10 knots with gusts. Upon exiting the aircraft, the pilot observed a cumulonimbus cloud forming near the edge of the airfield and suggested that a gust from this cell might have contributed to the aircraft swinging off course.
Further examination of the pilot's credentials revealed that this was the pilot's first flight in this specific aircraft type. While the pilot held a private license and was rated on other tailwheel aircraft, they had no formal training on the Druine Turbulent and lacked the necessary endorsement for this type. Regarding maintenance, the homebuilt aircraft had undergone an annual inspection on May 28, 2001, and held a valid authority to fly. At the time of the accident, the aircraft had only been operated for 2.5 hours since its last annual inspection.
Findings
- The pilot lacked specific training and a formal endorsement for the aircraft type.
- The pilot's experience was limited to only 50 minutes on this particular model.
- A loss of directional control occurred during the landing phase.
- Potential weather-related factors, specifically a gust from a developing cumulonimbus cloud, may have influenced the aircraft's path.