History of Flight
The pilot, accompanied by two passengers and a small dog, departed Wonderboom Airport at 0510Z on a private flight to Plettenberg Bay via Graaff-Reinet for refuelling. No flight plan was filed. After refuelling and a 30-minute rest at Graaff-Reinet, the aircraft departed on a southerly heading (200°) at 3500 feet AGL towards the Tsitsikama area for scenic views. The pilot reported clear of clouds, though official weather indicated scattered clouds with bases between 1500 and 4500 feet AGL.
Accident Sequence
While approximately 10 km from Tsitsikama, the aircraft encountered severe turbulence and began losing height rapidly. The pilot stated he was unable to control the aircraft and did not recall the impact. At 09:34Z, he contacted George tower via cell phone, reporting the accident and uncertainty about his position, only able to see a wind farm in the distance. Search and rescue was initiated; an R44 helicopter spotted the wreckage an hour later. The aircraft had struck the mountainside at 1462 feet AMSL, with the right wing making initial contact before skidding several metres. The wreckage was located 13.23 nm west of Humansdorp.
Injuries and Damage
Two passengers sustained fatal injuries; the pilot suffered severe injuries (including a head injury) and was airlifted to St George's Hospital, where he spent a month in a coma and was discharged eight weeks later. The dog was uninjured. The aircraft was destroyed, and fuel spillage caused minor vegetation damage.
Meteorological Information
Surface wind was 230° at 10 knots, with few clouds at 1500 feet and scattered at 4600 feet. Temperature was 18.9°C, dew point 16.9°C, QNH 1016. Observations indicated a coastal low passing near Port Elizabeth.
Wreckage and Impact
The aircraft's right wing tip first contacted the mountain; debris including the propeller, panels, and a door were scattered along the impact path. Terrain was hostile and sloping, requiring helicopter assistance for access. Flight recorders were not fitted.
Investigation
The investigation determined that the aircraft entered an area of turbulence, lost height, and impacted the mountain.