What happened
On 1 May 2014, a Maule M-7-235B, registration ZS-SVK, departed Rand Aerodrome for a private flight to Parys Aerodrome. The flight, which included the pilot and one passenger, proceeded without incident until the arrival phase. Upon approaching the airfield, the pilot performed a low-level circuit to assess local weather. Observing a limp windsock, the pilot determined that wind conditions were calm.
As the aircraft transitioned into the landing flare on Runway 2 and 4, a sudden, strong wind gust struck from the right side. This unexpected lateral force lifted the right wing, causing the left wing to drop and strike the runway surface. The impact bent the left main landing gear strut and caused the propeller to strike the asphalt. The aircraft subsequently entered a ground loop, coming to rest on the right side of the runway. There were no injuries to the occupants, though the aircraft sustained substantial damage to the wing, gear, and propeller.
The investigation
An investigation by the SACAA AIID confirmed that the pilot was properly licensed and medically fit for the flight. Technical examinations of the Maule M-7-235B revealed that the aircraft was well-maintained, with all inspections up to date and no evidence of mechanical failure or pre-impact malfunction. The investigation established that the aircraft's airframe, engine, and control surfaces were all in working order prior to the event. The damage observed was entirely consistent with the forces encountered during the ground loop.