What happened
On 2 April 2006, a Kitfox iv aircraft, registration ZU-ACF, departed from Bela-bella (Warmbaths) in the Limpopo province for a private scenic flight to Kitty Hawk Aero Estate Aerodrome. Shortly after takeoff during the climb phase, the engine began losing power. In an attempt to return to the departure airfield, the pilot executed a 180-degree turn at a very low altitude of approximately 200 feet AGL. During this maneuver, the aircraft stalled and entered a spin. The aircraft subsequently impacted a maize field southwest of the aerodrome in a steep, nose-down configuration with the right wing low. The impact and a subsequent post-impact fire resulted in one fatality and one serious injury.
The investigation
An investigation team from the SACAA examined the wreckage and interviewed witnesses at the scene. Witnesses reported hearing the engine struggle and restart several times before the aircraft turned back toward the airport. The investigation found that the aircraft's primary flight controls and structure showed no evidence of failure prior to the impact. While the engine and carburetors were heavily damaged by fire, the spark plugs were in good condition and the engine turned freely. Although the exact cause of the power loss could not be determined due to fire damage, investigators noted the possibility of fuel contamination. The investigation also confirmed that the pilot held a valid medical certificate and was rated for the aircraft type, though his private pilot's license had expired.
Findings
- The aircraft entered an unrecoverable spin following an engine power loss.
- The pilot utilized poor technique by attempting a 180-degree turn at a critically low altitude of 200 feet AGL.
- The aircraft was destroyed by the impact and the resulting fire.
- Weather conditions were clear and did not contribute to the accident.