What happened
On 04 May 2006, a Cessna 172, registration ZS-OBX, departed Lanseria Aerodrome for a private flight to Madikwe Game Reserve. The aircraft was expected to arrive at approximately 0915Z; however, when it failed to appear, a search operation was launched. The wreckage was discovered the following morning within a mountain range inside the Madik andwe Game Reserve, at an elevation of approximately 4,068 feet.
The impact occurred in a straight and level attitude, with the aircraft striking trees and rocks. The force of the collision was so severe that the wings separated from the airframe and the cabin was destroyed. The pilot sustained fatal injuries during the accident.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and satellite tracking data, which showed the aircraft's last recorded position was roughly 16.67 km from the crash site. The engine was found to be at full power at the moment of impact, and no mechanical or maintenance defects were identified in the aircraft's history.
Meteorological evidence gathered from local residents indicated that the area was experiencing heavy fog and mist, which significantly reduced visibility. The investigation focused on the pilot's flight capabilities and the environmental conditions present during the flight sequence.