What happened
On 2 February 2010, a Windlass Aquilla microlight, registration ZU-FDC, was engaged in agricultural spraying operations on a private farm located approximately 4 km northwest of Ballito Microlight Aerodrome in KwaZulu-Natal. The aircraft departed from Ballito Aerodrome carrying a 90 kg chemical payload.
While performing a spray run across the field, the aircraft struck high-tension wires. The impact caused the aircraft to strike the ground, resulting in serious injuries to the pilot, specifically fractured ribs, which required intensive care treatment. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to its propeller, wings, and landing gear structure.
The investigation
An investigation into the accident examined the flight path, the aircraft's configuration, and the environmental conditions. The aircraft was operating under a valid Air Operating Certificate and was configured with approved aerial spraying equipment. At the time of takeoff, the total mass of the aircraft was 434.5 kg, which was 15.5 kg below the maximum allowable limit of 450 kg.
The investigation confirmed that the pilot held a valid commercial pilot's license with the necessary agricultural ratings. Meteorological conditions at the time of the accident were favorable, with good visibility and clear skies. Furthermore, maintenance records indicated the aircraft had been maintained by an approved person and was within its inspection intervals.
Findings
- The pilot was aware that high-tension wires spanned the bottom end of the field; however, he was unaware that the wires branched off in a different direction near the end of the spraying area.
- The primary cause of the accident was the pilot's failure to notice the second set of high-tension wires during the spray run, leading to the mid-air collision.