What happened
On 18 April 2003, a SENSATION MK II Z182 microlight, registered as ZU-CAS, was involved in an accident near Leeupan dam, close to Secunda. The aircraft was conducting a private flight, departing from and intending to return to FASC, Secunda. While flying at a low altitude, the pilot initiated a right-hand turn and began a descent. During this maneuver, the pilot believed the aircraft was maintaining a height of roughly 100 feet above the water; however, the right wing struck the surface of the dam. The impact caused the aircraft to plunge into the water, where it subsequently sank to the bottom.
The investigation
Investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the flight and the condition of the aircraft. At the time of the incident, the aircraft was operating under a proving flight authority that was valid until August 2003. Records indicated that the airframe, engine, and propeller had relatively low usage, with total hours recorded at 43.45 for the airframe, 46 for the engine, and 12 for the propeller. The weather conditions at the time of the accident were reported as CAVOK (ceiling and visibility OK).
Findings
- The pilot misjudged the aircraft's height above the water during a low-level turn.
- The right-hand wing made contact with the surface of the dam, leading to the crash.
- Despite the extensive damage sustained by the SENSATION MK II Z182, the pilot escaped the wreckage with no injuries.