History of Flight
On 3 February 2010, a Cessna T206H (registration ZS-PNM) departed Krugersdorp Aerodrome (FAKR) for a private flight to Wonderboom Aerodrome (FAWB) for a mandatory 50-hour oil change. The pilot, who was also a part-owner, was accompanied by an instructor. The pilot held a private pilot license with 203.8 total flying hours and was rated but did not feel comfortable flying the aircraft solo due to low hours on type. The instructor held a commercial license with approximately 5660.3 hours and was instrument rated.
Weather at departure was suitable for VFR flights. En route, the aircraft impacted the Magaliesberg Mountain range at an elevation of 5165 feet. A post-impact fire destroyed the aircraft. Both occupants sustained fatal injuries.
Weather conditions in the accident area were instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). Witnesses reported the mountain was covered in mist and fog, with visibility less than 10 meters. A witness (a pilot) heard the aircraft overhead at approximately 0420Z, noted a constant RPM sound, then an increase in RPM followed by the sound of impact. He contacted Johannesburg ATC to report the accident.
Another witness located the wreckage on the mountainside about 20 minutes on foot. Due to thick mist, the police could not reach the site by air until the mist cleared around 0630Z.
Injuries to Persons
Both occupants were fatally injured. No other injuries were reported.
Damage to Aircraft
The aircraft was destroyed by post-impact fire.
Meteorological Information
The accident occurred in daylight with mist and fog. Surface wind was 030°T at 5 knots, temperature 15°C, dew point 15°C, cloud cover overcast, visibility nil in cloud. Witnesses reported mist reaching down to the tree line.
Wreckage and Impact
The aircraft struck the mountainside at an angle, with the left wing tip hitting first, followed by the nose and right wing. The impact elevation was 5165 feet near the top of the ridge (maximum elevation 5319 feet). A post-impact fire ensued from a ruptured fuel tank; the ignition source was not determined.
Other Information
The pilot and instructor held valid medical certificates (Class 2 and Class 1 respectively). No pre-existing conditions or restrictions were noted. Post-mortem and toxicology results were pending at the time of the report. The aircraft was equipped with standard navigation and communication systems; none were reported unserviceable. A transmission from the aircraft was recorded at 0417Z on FAWB Tower frequency (unmanned at that time) stating inbound from HBV at 5000 feet. Voice identification indicated the instructor made the transmission.
Probable Cause
The aircraft flew in adverse weather conditions which resulted in the pilot flying into the mountain (CFIT).