What happened
On 7 March 2008, a Quik GT 450 microlight, registration ZU-ETY, was involved in an accident at Rietfontein Aerodrome in Gauteng Province. After completing a previous flight, the pilot prepared for a new departure to the Vaal Dam area. During the takeoff roll on Runway 26, the aircraft failed to reach the required rotation speed of 40 mph, peaking at only 36 mph.
As the aircraft progressed up the runway slope, it failed to become airborne and instead overran the end of the gravel strip. The aircraft struck an embankment, causing the nose gear to fail and the aircraft to nose over. The momentum carried the aircraft approximately 30 metres past the runway threshold, where it collided with the wall and roof of a house. The pilot and passenger sustained serious injuries during the impact sequence.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the wreckage, the runway surface, and the pilot's actions. Physical evidence on the runway, including a specific tyre mark, indicated that one of the wheels was not rotating freely, suggesting a braking issue. The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's weight and balance, finding the total takeoff mass of 445.2 kg was within the manufacturer's 450 kg limit.
Investigators also looked into the environmental conditions and the pilot's preparations. While the weather was clear, the pilot was operating with a tailwind component. Furthermore, the investigation noted that the pilot had not conducted a pre-takeoff briefing with the passenger prior to the accident.