What happened
On 14 July 2010, a private flight departing from Mount West Aerodrome was nearing its conclusion at Light Flight Aerodrome in KwaZulu-Natal. The flight, which lasted approximately 30 minutes, proceeded without incident until the final approach.
As the pilot prepared to land on Runway 01 using 30 degrees of flap, the SG Aviation-Rally 105 touched down at an indicated airspeed of roughly 60 mph. During the roundout phase, a sudden and severe gust of wind lifted the right-hand wing. In an attempt to recover, the pilot immediately applied power and used aileron and rudder inputs to initiate a go-around. However, the aircraft veered left and exited the runway, entering a 90-degree ground loop. During this uncontrolled rotation, the outer section of the right-hand wing struck a steel windsock pole located about 15 metres from the runway edge. The impact caused substantial damage to the wings, fuselage, propeller, and landing gear.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the flight sequence and environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The investigation confirmed that the pilot held a valid microlight aeroplane pilot’s licence (MPL) and a current medical certificate. Records indicated that the aircraft, registration ZU-EWP, was being maintained by an authorized person.
Meteorological data was reviewed to determine the impact of wind on the aircraft's stability. While official South African Weather Services records noted a surface wind of 340° at 10 knots, the pilot's report highlighted the presence of severe gusts during the landing phase. The investigation also noted that the aircraft was properly equipped with standard communication and navigational tools, and the pilot was correctly restrained by safety harnesses during the event.
Findings
- The pilot was fully qualified and medically fit to operate the aircraft.
- The aircraft, ZU-EWP, was properly maintained and airworthy.
- The primary factor in the accident was that the pilot lost directional control of the aircraft upon touchdown due to severe wind gusts.
- The accident was considered survivable due to low impact forces and the use of proper safety restraints.
- The collision with the windsock pole resulted in no injuries to the pilot but caused significant structural damage to the aircraft.