What happened
On 18 July 2013, a Cirrus SR20, registration ZS-CAP, was conducting a proficiency check flight at Lanseria International Airport. The flight was being operated by a flight instructor and a private pilot, intended to evaluate the student's skills for future aircraft hire. After completing an initial circuit, the aircraft performed a touch-and-go landing on Runway 06L. During this sequence, the pilot requested an early right-hand turn, which air traffic control approved.
As the aircraft transitioned onto the crosswind leg, witnesses observed the plane banking sharply to the right. The aircraft subsequently rolled level and then entered a sudden dive toward the ground. Although the aircraft's ballistic parachute was seen in the process of deploying, the impact occurred at a very low altitude. The aircraft struck the ground on a private farm in the Muldersdrift area, resulting in two fatalities and the total destruction of the aircraft.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the wreckage and flight data to determine the cause of the descent. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft was within weight and balance limits and possessed a valid certificate of airworthiness. There was no evidence of mechanical failure, engine malfunction, or structural defects. Furthermore, the weather conditions were clear and stable, and there was no indication of pilot incapacitation.
Analysis of the wreckage revealed that the flap linear actuator was in the fully extended position. This indicated that the aircraft was configured with 100% flaps during the maneuver, which deviates from the manufacturer's recommended takeoff settings of 0% or 50%.
Findings
- The aircraft entered a stall at a low altitude during a sharp climbing turn.
- The pilots failed to reconfigure the flaps to the proper takeoff setting following the touch-and-go maneuver.
- The deployment of the ballistic parachute during the descent contributed to a further downward nose attitude, making recovery impossible at such a low height.