What happened
On 08 March 2007, a PIPER PA34 200T, registration ZS-MSN, departed from Kamuzu International Aerodrome in Malawi on a domestic charter flight bound for Karonga Aerodrome. The aircraft, carrying a pilot and one passenger, took off from Runway 13 at 0409Z. Following takeoff, the aircraft began a left-hand turn while climbing to an altitude of approximately 5529ft AMSL at an indicated airspeed of 135mph.
During this climb, the aircraft's flight path changed into a descent, reaching speeds of up to 198mph while maintaining the left-hand turn. The aircraft subsequently struck a maize field in a wing-low attitude before colliding with a tree. The impact forces were so severe that the aircraft was destroyed, and 2 fatalities were recorded.
The investigation
Investigators examined the flight history and technical status of the aircraft. It was noted that on the previous day, the aircraft had flown from Mozambique to Kamuzu International Aerode, during which the pilot had reported radio communication issues; these issues were reportedly resolved upon landing. Prior to the fatal flight, the aircraft had been fueled to capacity with 227 litres of fuel.
Technical records indicated that the most recent Mandatory Periodical Inspection (MPI) for the airframe had been completed on 17 November 2006. At the time of the accident, the aircraft had accumulated an additional 63 hours of flight time since that inspection.