What happened
On 30 July 2008, a Jabiru J4/30 (registration ZU-SGG) was preparing for a return flight from Bethlehem Aerodrome to Harrismith Aerodrome. The aircraft, carrying a pilot and one passenger, had recently been refuelled to capacity. During the take-off roll on Runway 29, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of lift upon rotation.
In response, the pilot elected to abort the take-off. Despite applying maximum braking, the aircraft could not be stopped within the remaining runway length. To avoid overrunning the runway and striking the perimeter fence, the pilot steered the aircraft to the left. During this manoeuvre, the nose wheel struck a windrow—a small mound of earth approximately 15 to 20cm high—located 4m from the runway edge. The impact caused the aircraft to nose over and come to rest in an inverted position. While the passenger sustained minor injuries (torn chest ligaments), the pilot was uninjured. The aircraft suffered significant damage, including a cracked vertical fin, shattered cockpit windows, and a bent nose landing gear.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the aircraft's weight and balance, the aerodrome's recent maintenance activities, and the pilot's flight experience. The investigation focused on why the aircraft failed to stop on the runway and the presence of the obstacle that caused the inversion. Investigators also reviewed the status of recent NOTAMs regarding runway lighting maintenance at the aerodrome.
Findings
- The aircraft was exceeding its maximum take-off weight by 15kg.
- The aircraft's center of gravity was positioned beyond the forward limit, which reduced up-elevator effectiveness and contributed to the loss of lift during rotation.
- The windrow was a result of recent maintenance on runway lighting cables; the soil had not been properly compacted following the excavation.
- Although a NOTAM had been issued regarding the lighting, it had been cancelled the day before the accident and did not warn of any ground hazards.
- The pilot's limited experience on the Jabiru J430 type may have contributed to an incorrect take-off technique.
Safety action
- It is recommended that the CAA and Aerodrome Safety Department ensure that aerodrome holders properly compact and flatten ground following any maintenance work to prevent hazards.
- A recommendation was made for improved oversight of aerodrome maintenance to ensure safety is not compromised.
- The investigation suggested that Aeronautical Information Services should ensure NOTAMs contain detailed information regarding any specific hazards or risks resulting from aerodrome maintenance.