What happened
On the morning of 16 December 2003, a Piper PA 22-108, registration ZS-DVF, departed from Krugersdorp Aerodrome for a private flight. The aircraft was carrying a pilot and one passenger. While flying over the Hartebeesfontein area, the aircraft was observed by an eyewitness performing several orbits at an altitude of approximately 100 metres (3/30 feet) above ground level.
During the final sequence of flight, the aircraft was flying with a tailwind before turning in a southeasterly direction. An observer noted that while the engine appeared to be running at a constant speed, the aircraft entered a left turn into the wind. Although the initial 90 degrees of this turn seemed normal, the bank angle suddenly increased significantly. This was immediately followed by a dive into the terrain, resulting in a high-impact collision on a farm in the Magaliesburg district. Both occupants sustained fatal injuries.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the wreckage and the engine performance. A teardown inspection of the Lycoming engine revealed no evidence of mechanical failure or malfunctions prior to the impact. The flight control systems and all associated linkages were found to be intact. Meteorological data indicated fine weather conditions with good visibility, and investigators concluded that the weather played no role in the accident.
Regarding the aircraft's legal status, the investigation found that while the aircraft was maintained according to approved schedules, the annual Certificate of Airworthiness currency fee had expired in October 2003. The pilot was found to be in possession of a valid private pilot's licence and a valid medical certificate, with no evidence of physiological incapacitation.