Overview
On 2 June 2005, a Piper PA-25 aircraft registered as ZS-FDT was engaged in commercial agricultural spraying operations near Shafton Aerodrome, Howick, Kwazulu Natal, South Africa. During the flight, the aircraft collided with high tension power lines, resulting in severe damage to the aircraft. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, was not injured.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The aircraft, a Piper PA-25, was first registered in South Africa on 27 November 1959. Its last mandatory periodic inspection (MPI) was completed on 27 April 2005 at a total of 7023.5 airframe hours. After that inspection, the aircraft flew an additional 24.2 hours before the accident. The pilot held a valid agricultural pilot rating and pest control operator registration certificate. He was 40 years old, had 2775 total flying hours, with 63.1 hours on type. His license was valid and endorsed for the aircraft type, and his medical certificate was valid until 30 April 2006.
Accident Circumstances
The pilot reported that he was conducting crop spray operations when he flew into high tension power lines. He stated that he lost sight of the power lines during the operation. The accident site was located at GPS coordinates S29° 22.0524' E030° 42.4670'. Meteorological conditions at the time were fine, CAVOK (ceiling and visibility OK), with a temperature of 17°C.
Maintenance and Oversight
The maintenance organization (AMO 182) that serviced the aircraft had been audited prior to the accident, and four findings were identified. A corrective action plan was discussed and found acceptable by the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA). Subsequently, it was recommended that the AMO licence number 167 be renewed until 31 March 2006.
Probable Cause
The probable cause of the accident was the pilot's failure to look out, resulting in a collision with high tension power lines. A contributing factor was the pilot losing situational awareness during the crop spray operation.