History of Flight
On 09 October 2006, the pilot flew with one passenger from New Tempe to Bethlehem, then continued to Cato Ridge with two maintenance engineers. After landing at Cato Ridge around 0800Z, the pilot intended to return later that day but was advised by a witness (a microlight instructor) not to fly due to deteriorating weather. The pilot noted the aircraft was IFR-equipped but agreed to stay overnight.
The next day, 10 October 2006, the pilot reactivated an IFR flight plan from Cato Ridge to New Tempe Aerodrome, departing at approximately 1030Z with two passengers. Weather at the aerodrome was fine with scattered clouds toward the Drakensberg. The aircraft was identified on radar at 1032Z at 3300 ft, routing south of Pietermaritzburg. At 1039Z, the controller cleared the pilot to route directly to destination. The aircraft maintained about 7700 ft until the last minutes, when a GPS download showed a right turn, then a left turn with a high rate of climb, shortly after which the aircraft impacted the mountainside. The accident occurred in daylight when the mountainside was cloud-covered.
Injuries
All three occupants (the pilot and two passengers) were fatally injured.
Damage to Aircraft
The aircraft was destroyed by impact forces and the post-impact fire.
Meteorological Information
The accident site was in the Drakensberg at approximately 8878 ft, with conditions reported as temperature 4°C, wind 090°/4 kts, 8 oktas cloud at 500 ft AGL. Satellite imagery showed cloud cover over the area up to mountain-top altitude. Witnesses at the mountain foot reported low cloud during the day.
Probable Cause
Controlled flight into terrain by the pilot flying a direct course with destination as New Tempe at an altitude insufficient to ensure adequate terrain clearance, notwithstanding last-minute attempts to remain clear of terrain.