What happened
On the afternoon of 31 August 2016, a private flight departing from Panorama aerodrome resulted in a fatal accident near the Alrode industrial area. The pilot, accompanied by a teenage passenger, was operating a Raptor 582 Trike, registration ZU-CEA, under clear visual meteorological conditions.
As the aircraft approached an open field for a landing, the pilot appeared to be evaluating the suitability of the terrain. While attempting to maneuver, the aircraft's right wing struck the top section of a 60-foot Eskom high-voltage power line pylon. The impact caused the aircraft to pitch downward and crash into the ground. The pilot sustained fatal injuries, while the passenger suffered serious injuries and required extensive medical treatment.
The investigation
Investigators from the SACAA AIID examined the wreckage and the engine, finding no evidence of mechanical failure or pre-impact malfunctions. The aircraft's maintenance records were up to date, and the engine was found to have sufficient usable fuel.
Eyewitness accounts indicated that the pilot may have been attempting to land in the field but became hesitant due to the presence of obstacles, such as a construction rubbish dump, at the far end of the area. The investigation also noted that the pilot was carrying unsecured wheel fairings intended for delivery to a maintenance factory. Furthermore, the flight path was found to have violated regulations regarding minimum flight heights over certain areas.