What happened
On 28 June 2008, a Piper PA 28-236, registration ZS-KIA, departed Pietermaritzburg Aerodrome for Grand Central Aerodrome in Gauteng. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft was observed by Durban Approach flying in a south-westerly direction, contrary to its intended northerly track.
Air traffic controllers contacted the crew to correct their heading. While the pilot acknowledged the instruction to turn toward 360 degrees, radar data showed the aircraft began a right-hand turn. During this maneuver, the aircraft disappeared from radar at flight level 057. The wreckage was later located in a sugar cane field near Hammars and was found scattered across a 730-meter area.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the wreckage and performed a metallurgical analysis of the fractured components. The investigation focused on the structural integrity of the wings and stabilator. The wreckage was found in ten major sections, including the main cabin, various wing segments, and pieces of the elevator.
Investigators also reviewed the pilot's credentials, the aircraft's maintenance history, and the prevailing meteorological conditions. The investigation noted that the aircraft's Certificate of Airworthiness had expired on 11 May 2008. Additionally, the crew had not filed a flight plan prior to departure, only doing so from the air following a request from ATC.
Findings
- The aircraft suffered an in-flight break-up caused by aerodynamic overstress failure due to excessive airspeed.
- Metallurgical analysis confirmed that the wings and stabilator failed due to structural overload, with no evidence of pre-existing fatigue or corrosion.
- The crew's lack of instrument ratings, combined with cloudy weather conditions, likely contributed to a loss of situational awareness.
- The pilot's decision to execute a right-hand turn—the longer route to the intended heading—likely led to the aircraft exceeding its structural speed limitations.
- Both pilots sustained fatal injuries upon impact.