What happened
On November 13, 2002, a Windlass Trike, registration ZU-ATY, was conducting a private low-level flight along the coast near Boggoms Bay. The aircraft was traveling from Mossel Bay toward Cape Town with two people on board. While flying above the beach, the pilot encountered a downdraught while passing in front of several seaside residences. This loss of altitude caused the aircraft to strike the crest of a sand dune. Following the initial impact with the dune, the aircraft collided with a concrete bench, which brought the vehicle to an immediate and violent stop.
The investigation
Investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the impact and the condition of the aircraft. The pilot, who suffered from amnesia and concussion following the event, provided a statement regarding the sequence of events. The investigation confirmed that the Windlass Trike was in a serviceable condition with no reported mechanical defects prior to the flight. Furthermore, the pilot held a valid license with the appropriate type endorsement, and all necessary flight authorities and third-party insurance were in order at the time of the occurrence.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was that the pilot flew too low relative to the terrain.
- The aircraft's path was interrupted by a downdraught, leading to the collision with the sand dune.
- The impact with a concrete bench resulted in extensive damage to the aircraft.
- The accident resulted in one serious injury (a broken neck and legs for the pilot), while the passenger remained uninjured.