What happened
On 26 April 2008, a Cessna T2-10L, registration ZS-MSR, was performing a private flight from Krokodilspruit Farm, a private aerodrome near Cullinan in Gauteng, toward Volksrust. The aircraft was carrying the pilot and two passengers. During the takeoff roll on the gravel runway, the aircraft began to veer toward the left side of the strip. As the aircraft moved off the prepared surface, the left main landing gear climbed an embankment, leading to a collision between the left wing and a tree located adjacent to the runway. The impact caused the left wing and gear to detach from the airframe. Following the collision, the aircraft struck the ground and a post-impact fire erupted, fueled by spilling aviation fuel. The fire destroyed the aircraft and resulted in two fatalities and one serious injury.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the wreckage and interviewed several witnesses at the scene. The investigation focused on the mechanical state of the aircraft, the pilot's experience, and the runway conditions. Witnesses observed that the aircraft appeared to be dragging in the sand and noted that the left wheel seemed to be non-rotating during the takeoff roll. One passenger, who was also a pilot, attempted to assist with the controls after the pilot reportedly released the control yoke, but was unable to prevent the collision. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's training records, noting that while the pilot held a valid private license, there was no documented evidence of a completed technical examination or formal rating for this specific aircraft type from the training organization.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the loss of directional control during the takeoff roll, which led to the aircraft departing the runway and striking a tree.
- The runway surface was affected by excess water from a nearby dam, creating a patch of hard surface and loose sand that likely contributed to the loss of traction.
- The pilot possessed limited experience on the Cessna T210L.
- There was no evidence of mechanical failure in the engine or airframe prior to the impact.
- The lack of on-site fire rescue services at the private aerodrome contributed to the severity of the post-impact fire.