What happened
On 9 September 2010, a DynAero MCR 4 S, registration ZU-DTB, was conducting a private VFR flight from Bapsfontein Fly Inn Park toward Barberton. Due to deteriorating weather conditions at the intended destination, the pilot diverted to a private airstrip at Carolina.
Upon landing on Runway 27, the pilot attempted to decelerate using the wheel brakes and the handbrake. However, the aircraft failed to stop sufficiently on the grass surface. During the landing roll, the aircraft pulled to the left and veered off the runway onto a rough grass area. The nosewheel subsequently struck an obscured ditch, causing the nose landing gear to collapse and the nose section of the aircraft to impact the ground. There were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the circumstances of the landing at the Carolina airstrip. The investigation established that the pilot was flying at a private airfield for the first time and was not aware of the specific characteristics of the runway. The aircraft was found to be in a serviceable condition with a valid authority to fly, and the pilot held a valid private pilot license and medical certificate.
Investigators noted that the aircraft sustained substantial damage, specifically to the propeller, flaps, nose cowling, and firewall. The investigation also confirmed that the aircraft was not equipped with flight recorders, which were not required for this type of operation.