What happened
On 22 January 2015, a Bushbaby 450, registration ZU-BBW, was performing a local private flight departing from Mossel Bay Aerodrome (FAMO). After completing pre-flight inspections and engine power checks, the pilot lined up on runway 09. As the aircraft accelerated and became airborne at approximately 70 mph, the pilot maintained level wings until reaching an altitude of about 100 feet.
At this height, the aircraft experienced a sudden and violent change in attitude. The left wing lifted abruptly, followed by the right wing lifting twice. Despite the pilot's attempts to correct the aircraft's position using opposite control stick and rudder input, the left wing tip made contact with the runway surface. This impact caused the aircraft to swing left and strike the ground near the runway edge in a heavy nose-down attitude. The pilot sustained minor injuries, including lacerations to the hands and lower left leg, but was able to be transported to a local hospital by an on-site engineer.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the wreckage and the pilot's flight history. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft's flight controls were fully functional and that the engine had been delivering full power during the takeoff roll. There was no evidence of mechanical failure or fuel contamination. The aircraft's weight and balance were found to be within safe operating limits for the solo flight.
Investigators also reviewed the pilot's experience, noting that while the pilot held a valid national license, he had only accumulated 6.3 hours of flight time on this specific aircraft type. Furthermore, the pilot's previous experience was primarily on tricycle-gear aircraft, whereas the Bushbaby 450 is a tail-dragger configuration, which requires different handling techniques during takeoff and landing.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating within its weight and balance limits with sufficient fuel on board.
- All flight control linkages and engine components were found to be intact and functional prior to the impact.
- A crosswind from the right was present during the takeoff sequence.
- While the pilot initially assessed the wind as a light southeast breeze, photographic evidence from the scene indicated a crosswind of approximately 10 knots from the right shortly after the accident.