What happened
On 12 March 2015, a Raven 500 aircraft, registration ZU-ENR, departed from Potchefstroom Aerodrome (FAPS) for a private flight intended for Wonderboom Aerodrome. After taking off from Runway 21, the pilot performed a series of turns to align the aircraft with Runway 03 for a low-level fly-pass.
While executing the high-speed pass at an altitude of approximately 30 feet, the pilot pulled the nose up to climb. During this ascent, the aircraft entered a left-hand barrel roll. The maneuver lost momentum, causing the aircraft to pitch into a dive. As the pilot attempted to recover, the right wing dropped, leading to a horizontal impact with the ground near the runway perimeter. The impact was followed by a post-impact fire that destroyed the aircraft and resulted in two fatalities.
The investigation
Investigators from the SACAA AIID utilized video footage from a mobile phone to reconstruct the flight path. The analysis confirmed that the aircraft was in a normal flight configuration and that all control surfaces were intact prior to impact. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's credentials, noting that while the pilot held a valid Airline Transport Pilot license and medical certificate, they lacked the necessary aerobatic rating.
Technical examination of the wreckage showed that the engine separated from the fuselage during the second impact, and the aircraft was consumed by fire. Meteorological data indicated clear skies and favorable flying conditions, suggesting the weather played no role in the accident.
Findings
- The pilot attempted an unplanned aerobatic maneuver without the required aerobatic rating on their license.
- The aircraft struck the ground due to insufficient altitude to recover from the roll.
- The execution of the maneuver violated Civil Aviation Regulations regarding aerobatic flight height and permission.
- The accident was not caused by mechanical failure or environmental factors.