What happened
On the morning of 26 April 2008, a Robinson R44 Raven II helicopter, registration ZS-PWG, was stationed at Rand Aerodrome for a commercial vehicle tracking operation. After receiving an urgent call-out regarding a stolen vehicle, the crew prepared for departure.
During the take-off sequence, the pilot executed a departure that witnesses described as highly unstable and erratic. The pilot's door was observed to be open as the aircraft climbed. Contrary to the air traffic controller's instructions to remain north of runway 2/9, the aircraft turned right and drifted toward the maintenance facilities. The main rotor blades struck the door of hangar 33, causing significant damage to the rotor system. This impact led to a loss of control, and the helicopter struck the apron area, hitting parked vehicles before skidding 80 meters along the asphalt. The aircraft subsequently became engulfed in an intense fire. Despite the rapid response from aerodrome fire services, the two fatalities on board were not survived.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the flight path, the aircraft's mechanical state, and the sequence of events leading to the impact. The investigation confirmed that the helicopter had been refueled and was within its maximum certified take-off weight. Investigators reviewed air traffic control communications, which indicated that the pilot had acknowledged specific clearance instructions but failed to adhere to the designated corridor. The investigation also looked into the physical damage to the hangar and the surrounding vehicles, as well as the performance of the aerodrome's emergency response equipment.