What happened
On 13 March 2010, a Windlass Trike, registration ZU-BUH, departed from Microland Aerodrome for a private pleasure flight. While performing the takeoff roll on runway 21, the aircraft failed to achieve the expected climb rate. The pilot, carrying one passenger, noted that the aircraft was struggling to gain altitude, likely due to the added weight and a slight crosswind.
As the aircraft approached the end of the runway, the pilot identified power cables positioned approximately 200 meters ahead. With insufficient runway remaining to clear the obstacles, the pilot initiated an emergency landing maneuver by turning left toward a level grass field. During this turn, the airspeed dropped significantly. The aircraft's left wing dropped, leading to a stall. Despite attempts to recover, the low altitude prevented a successful correction, and the aircraft entered a dive before impacting the ground. The impact caused the aircraft to roll onto its right side, resulting in serious injuries to the pilot, while the passenger remained unhurt.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the aircraft's weight and balance and the pilot's performance data. The investigation revealed a critical discrepancy regarding the aircraft's maximum takeoff weight (MTOW). While the pilot's records suggested a maximum permissible mass of 350 kg, the manufacturer's specifications stated the limit was actually 330 kg.
Upon calculating the actual mass with the fuel onboard, investigators determined the aircraft was operating at 358 kg, meaning it exceeded its weight limitations by 28 kg. This excess weight was identified as a primary factor in the aircraft's inability to maintain altitude during the takeoff phase.