What happened
On 21 November 2016, a Robinson R44 Raven II, registration ZS-RVH, was conducting a private wildlife darting operation on the Tweeriviere farm in the Moedwil area of the North West. The mission involved immobilizing sable antelope for relocation. During the flight, the pilot and a veterinarian were tracking a single remaining animal moving in a southerly direction.
The pilot noted a telephone line ahead and intended to wait for the animal to pass under the wires to reach a more suitable open area. However, the antelope turned left, running along the path of the lines. As the pilot maneuvered to follow the animal, the helicopter struck an electrical power line situated 2.5 meters above the telephone wires. One cable struck the right side of the cabin, while another was severed by the tail rotor. The impact caused the pilot to lose control, leading the aircraft to crash on its skids and roll onto its side. Both occupants sustained serious injuries.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the flight path, the aircraft's maintenance history, and the environmental conditions at the time of the crash. The investigation confirmed that the pilot held a valid commercial license and the aircraft was properly maintained, with its last periodic inspection completed shortly before the accident. Meteorological conditions were clear with good visibility.
Investigators also reviewed the wreckage, noting that the impact had severed the power lines and caused substantial damage to the helicopter's fuselage, tail rotor, and instrument panel. The investigation also noted that the right-hand doors had been removed for the operation.