What happened
On 25 March 2005, a Windlass Aquilla micro light, registration ZU-GWA, was involved in an accident at a private aerodrome located in Vlakplaas, near Pretoria. The pilot had been conducting practice circuits and landings on a grass runway, specifically focusing on uphill landing techniques. After completing several successful maneuvers, the pilot attempted a final approach. During this last landing, a sudden wind gust occurred. Following touchdown, the pilot attempted to initiate a go-around; however, the aircraft was unable to climb sufficiently. Consequently, the aircraft struck a rock situated at the edge of the runway, which caused the aircraft to yaw sharply to the right.
The investigation
Investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the flight and the condition of the aircraft. The aircraft was being operated for private purposes on a property featuring two perpendicular grass runways. At the time of the incident, meteorological conditions were favorable, with visibility exceeding 10km and light winds from the west. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft's maintenance status was current, with the last annual inspection completed in July 2004. The aircraft's authority to fly was also valid at the time of the occurrence. The impact with the rock resulted in structural damage to the wing, propeller, and trike, and caused the nose wheel to detach from the airframe. The pilot sustained one injury, specifically a fractured wrist that necessitated surgical intervention.