What happened
On 07 July 2005, a Microlight aircraft, registration ZU-AZL, was preparing for a private pleasure flight from the Weinhoek Farm private aerodrome in the Thabimbi area. Shortly after the aircraft rotated and began its climb, the engine experienced a sudden failure, causing the propeller to stop spinning.
Following the loss of power, the pilot attempted to steer the aircraft toward a nearby farm runway that was aligned with the departure path. However, the aircraft lost altitude rapidly while traversing an area characterized by tall trees. The aircraft struck the treetops before ultimately coming to rest on its roof on the ground. Both the pilot and the passenger sustained serious injuries and required emergency transport to a hospital via ambulance.
The investigation
Investigators reviewed the aircraft's maintenance history and the circumstances surrounding the flight. Records indicated that an annual inspection had been completed on 02 July 2005, with the aircraft having flown only 1.65 hours since that inspection. A valid Private Authority to Fly had been issued on 04 July 2005. Meteorological conditions at the time of the accident were reported as CAVOK with no wind and a temperature of 16ºC.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was a failure of the engine ignition system.
- The specific underlying reason for the ignition system failure could not be determined by investigators.