Accident Overview
On 4 January 2002, at 0845Z, a Cessna T188C aircraft, registration ZS-LHS, was involved in an accident during taxi at Hendriena Airfield. The aircraft was engaged in a crop spraying operation. The pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured. The aircraft sustained major structural damage.
Sequence of Events
The aircraft departed from Middelburg airfield for a crop spraying mission, which was completed successfully. After landing at Hendriena Airfield, while taxiing to the holding point, the pilot lost directional control of the aircraft. The aircraft collided with a ridge adjacent to the runway and veered off to the left side. The collision resulted in damage to the left wing, left elevator, and left main undercarriage.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The pilot held a commercial pilot license with a valid medical certificate and was appropriately licensed and type-rated for the aircraft. The pilot had accumulated 7,800 total flying hours, including 390 hours on the Cessna T188C. According to CAA records, this was the first accident involving this pilot. The aircraft was a Cessna T188C, registration ZS-LHS.
Meteorological Conditions
At the time of the accident, meteorological conditions were reported as fine. Wind was from the north at 3 knots, visibility was good, temperature was 22°C, cloud base was 2,000 feet, and cloud cover was 5/8.
Probable Cause
The pilot lost directional control of the aircraft during taxiing.