What happened
On the afternoon of 16 April 2013, a DH-82 Tiger Moth, registration ZS-OSS, departed Mahikeng Airport for a short scenic flight. The flight, intended as a birthday celebration for the passenger, involved a pilot and a flight instructor. After receiving takeoff clearance from Mahikeng Tower, the aircraft proceeded to the Modimola Dam area, notifying air traffic control that they intended to perform low-level maneuvers over the water for approximately ten minutes.
Shortly after, a witness observing the scene from the shoreline reported seeing the aircraft flying at a low altitude over the water. The witness noted that the engine sounded as though it was losing power. The aircraft then banked sharply to the left and entered a nose-down dive, impacting the water with significant force. The aircraft disappeared beneath the surface immediately following the impact.
The investigation
Following the disappearance, search and rescue operations were launched by the South African Police Services (SAPS) and local aviation colleagues. The wreckage was located underwater by a diving unit later that evening. The investigation examined the wreckage, the engine, and the flight communications.
Analysis of the propeller showed that the tips had shattered upon contact with the water, a condition consistent with the engine still producing power at the moment of impact. Investigators also reviewed the aircraft's maintenance history, finding that all required inspections had been completed and the aircraft was airworthy. The investigation also noted that the aircraft's control cables were intact, suggesting no mechanical failure of the flight controls prior to the crash. Meteorological data confirmed that weather conditions were clear with good visibility and no significant weather interference.
Findings
- The aircraft was properly maintained and met all regulatory requirements for airworthiness.
- The pilot was appropriately licensed and qualified for the operation.
- There was no evidence of mechanical or system failure in the airframe or flight controls prior to the accident.
- The engine was producing power at the time of the crash.
- The primary cause of the accident was the loss of control while flying at a low altitude over the water.