What happened
On 15 October 2011, an AT-401B was performing agricultural spraying operations over wheat fields in the Riversdale area of the Western Cape. The aircraft, registration ZS-SRX, was flying at a low altitude of approximately 15 to 20 feet above the ground.
During the mission, the pilot attempted to adjust the flight path to achieve longer spraying runs. While maneuvering, the aircraft struck power lines that were positioned perpendicular to the flight path. The impact caused the aircraft to lose directional control, leading to a crash in a nearby wheat field. The pilot escaped the wreckage without injury, though the aircraft and the power lines sustained significant damage.
The investigation
SACCAI ID investigators examined the flight history and the circumstances surrounding the collision. The investigation confirmed that the weather conditions were clear with good visibility, and the aircraft was properly maintained and equipped for its mission.
Investigators also reviewed the pilot's credentials, noting that while the pilot held a valid commercial license, they did not possess the required agricultural pilot rating or a pest control operator's certificate for this specific operation. The analysis focused on the sequence of events leading to the contact with the electrical conductors and the subsequent loss of control at such a low altitude.