What happened
On 9 July 2012, a Bantam B22J microlight, registration ZU-CYL, was conducting a private local flight near Groblersdal, Mpumalanga. The pilot and passenger were acting as aerial spotters to assist local farmers and security teams in searching for suspected burglars following a recent robbery.
Witnesses observed the aircraft flying at an extremely low altitude. As the aircraft approached a mountainside, the pilot attempted to maneuver the plane to avoid trees. During this maneuver, the aircraft's nose pitched up, the left wing dropped, and the microlight entered a spin before striking the ground at Renosterkop. The impact was severe, resulting in one fatality (the pilot) and serious injuries to the passenger. The aircraft was destroyed upon impact.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the wreckage and the flight circumstances. The investigation confirmed that the engine was functioning normally and that there was sufficient fuel on board for the intended flight. The aircraft's weight and balance were within safe operating limits, and the airframe was well-maintained.
Analysis of the wreckage ruled out structural failure, engine malfunction, or any mechanical defects as causes of the accident. Meteorological conditions were clear and were not a contributing factor. Investigators also noted that the aircraft was not equipped with a stall warning system.