What happened
On 18 October 2005, a commercial pilot was performing agricultural spraying operations near Riviersonderend in the Western Cape. After loading 1,200 litres of insecticide, the pilot departed from a 600-metre gravel runway at Farm Vrede. Following a downwind takeoff, the pilot initiated a left turn to navigate around a stand of bluegum trees.
During the maneuver, a sudden gust of wind lifted the aircraft' and caused a right-hand bank. In an attempt to manage the situation, the pilot immediately dumped the insecticide payload. However, the aircraft entered a stall, causing the nose to drop and leading to a collision with the trees. The impact, which first involved the left wing, caused the undercarriage and the empennage to separate from the fuselage. The aircraft eventually came to rest approximately 20 metres from a farm shed. The pilot sustained minor injuries, while the Air Tractor 401B sustained extensive damage.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the aircraft's weight and balance, flight parameters, and maintenance records. The investigation focused on the aircraft's configuration during takeoff and the deviation from established operating procedures. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's credentials and the operator's certification status.
Findings
- The aircraft was significantly overweight, exceeding its maximum allowable takeoff weight by approximately 1,657lbs (a 27% excess).
- The pilot departed with 30° of flaps and an indicated airspeed of 80 mph, which deviated from the Pilot Operating Handbook recommendation of 10° flaps and 100 mph.
- The aircraft was operating in clear visibility with light winds.
- The pilot was properly restrained by a four-point harness at the time of impact.