What happened
On 15 February 2014, a pilot operating an Aeros II microlight departed Heidelberg Aerodrome (FAHG) in Gauteng to perform circuit training. After successfully completing three landings on Runway 06, the pilot attempted to land on the unmarked grass Runway 34. During this fourth circuit, the aircraft floated extensively down the runway, prompting the pilot to initiate a go-around maneuver.
While attempting to turn right to position for a crosswind leg, the aircraft experienced a rapid decay in airspeed. The aircraft entered a stall at approximately 20 feet above the ground. Although the pilot attempted to recover by leveling the wings and adjusting the control bar, there was insufficient altitude to prevent the aircraft from impacting the ground. The impact, which occurred in a nose-down attitude, resulted in one fatality and substantial damage to the aircraft.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators analyzed GPS data, which revealed that during the initial three circuits on Runway 06, the aircraft had drifted significantly to the left of the runway. This drift was attributed to a 13-knot crosswind, which exceeded the aircraft's 11-knot limitation.
The investigation also examined the aircraft's technical configuration. While the engine was found to be mechanically sound following a teardown inspection, investigators discovered that the aircraft's wing had been replaced with a different model without the necessary regulatory approvals or paperwork being submitted to the authority. Additionally, the registration markings were not visible on the installed wing.
Findings
- The pilot was properly licensed and qualified for the flight.
- The crosswind component on Runway 06 was 13 knots, exceeding the aircraft's operational limit of 11 knots.
- The aircraft's wing had been installed without the required SACAA modification approvals.
- The primary cause of the accident was that the pilot stalled the aircraft during the go-around phase, leaving insufficient height for a successful recovery.