What happened
On 29 October 2008, a Samba XL aircraft, registration ZU-ENG, departed from Lanseria Aerodrome for a scheduled training session. The flight, operated by Aeronav Academy, was intended to be a routine training exercise for a student pilot, focusing on stall and spin awareness.
While flying over the Hekpoort area, the aircraft entered an unintentional spin. Eyewitnesses observed the aircraft in a spinning attitude at an altitude of approximately 400 feet AGL. Despite efforts to recover, the aircraft could not be stabilized before impacting a farm in the Hekpoort region. The impact resulted in the destruction of the aircraft and two fatalities, involving both the instructor and the student pilot.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the wreckage and flight parameters to determine the sequence of events. Analysis of the wreckage indicated the aircraft was in a left spin at the moment of impact. Evidence from the control positions—specifically the rudder pedals being pushed fully to the right and the throttle set near maximum power—suggested the pilot was actively attempting a recovery maneuver.
Engine analysis confirmed the engine was operating at high power during the impact. The investigation also noted that the aircraft was within its permitted weight and balance limits and that the engine and airframe were in a serviceable condition prior to the flight. However, the investigation highlighted that the aircraft was not certified for intentional spins or stalls, and no stall warning equipment was installed.
Findings
- The aircraft entered a spin from which recovery was impossible due to the low altitude.
- The flight was conducting exercises related to stall and spin avoidance.
- The Samba XL was not certified for aerobatic maneuvers, including intentional spins.
- There was no stall warning equipment or specific stall/spin warning placards present in the cockpit.
- The instructor had limited experience on this specific aircraft type, with approximately 18 hours of flight time.