What happened
On 03 February 2010, a Cessna T206H, registration ZS-PNM, departed Krugersdorp Aerodrome for a scheduled maintenance flight to Wonderboom Aerodrome. The flight, intended for a 50-hour oil change, was a private operation. The pilot, who requested the presence of an instructor due to limited experience on this specific aircraft type, was accompanied by a commercial instructor.
While navigating the Magaliesberg Mountain range near Hartebeespoort Dam, the aircraft struck the terrain at an elevation of approximately 5,165 feet. The impact, which involved the left wing tip and nose section, triggered a post-impact fire that consumed the wreckage. Both occupants sustained fatal injuries.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined witness accounts and meteorological data to reconstruct the flight path. Witnesses near the site reported that the mountain was shrouded in thick mist and fog, with cloud cover reaching down to the tree line. One pilot in the area observed the aircraft passing overhead at a constant engine RPM before hearing a sudden increase in RPM followed by the sound of impact.
The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's maintenance and operational records. While the aircraft was maintained by an approved organization and no mechanical defects were identified, investigators noted significant discrepancies in how flight hours were recorded between the flight folio and the logbooks. The last radio communication from the aircraft was a routine update from the instructor, stating the aircraft was inbound at 5,000 feet.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) characterized by heavy fog and visibility of less than 10 meters.
- The primary cause of the accident was controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).
- It could not be determined which individual was actively flying or who made the decision to continue the flight into the adverse weather conditions.
- The aircraft was in a valid state of airworthiness with no reported engine or mechanical failures prior to the impact.