What happened
On 8 September 2008, a private flight involving an Aerotrike Spirit II micro-light, registration ZU-BGA, resulted in a significant accident near Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal. The pilot had departed from Ladysmith Aerodrome to perform a series of touch-and-go landings on Runway 29. Following these maneuvers, the pilot elected to extend the flight profile by flying in a westerly direction at a very low altitude, between 15 and 20 feet above the ground.
While traversing a public road, the aircraft struck telephone wires that were spanning the roadway. The impact severed the wing's support cables, causing the pilot to lose control of the aircraft. The micro-light subsequently crashed onto the road surface approximately 100 meters from the initial collision point. The pilot sustained serious injuries and required hospitalization. The aircraft suffered substantial damage, including destruction of the propeller and damage to the wing, axle, and wheel spud, while the telephone wires were also severed.
The investigation
An investigation by the SACAA AIID established that the pilot was properly certified and experienced for the operation. The aircraft was found to be in compliance with all regulatory requirements for certification, equipment, and maintenance, with no evidence of mechanical or structural failure prior to the collision. Meteorological conditions at the time of the accident were favorable, with clear skies and no wind, meaning weather was not a contributing factor.
Findings
- The pilot failed to maintain an adequate lookout, leading to the collision with telephone wires.
- The pilot made a conscious decision to operate the aircraft at a low altitude, which increased the risk of encountering obstacles.
- The impact with the wires caused the structural failure of the wing support cables, leading to the loss of flight control.
- The lack of an enclosed cockpit contributed to the severity of the pilot's injuries, as the wing structure collapsed onto the occupant during the ground impact.