What happened
On 5 November 2017, a Windlass Aquilla, registration ZU-BYE, was conducting a private pleasure flight departing from Groutville Airfield in KwaZulu Natal. While returning to the airfield to land on runway 05, the aircraft was at approximately 15 feet above the ground when it encountered a sudden gust of wind. This wind event caused the aircraft to bank sharply to the right. The aircraft subsequently impacted the ground in a steep bank and veered off the runway. As the aircraft exited the paved surface, the nose gear dug into the soil, causing the aircraft to nose over and come to rest on its right side. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft. The pilot sustained serious injuries, while the passenger suffered minor injuries.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the meteorological conditions and the flight sequence leading to the impact. While the pilot initially reported local winds from 090°, investigators found that weather data from the nearby King Shaka International Airport indicated a wind of 040° at 14 knots. This data was more consistent with the aircraft's observed behavior, as a wind from the left would induce the observed rightward drift and bank. The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's maintenance history, noting that a 25-hour inspection had been completed recently, and verified that the pilot held a valid National Pilots Licence and the necessary type rating.
Findings
- The aircraft encountered a crosswind component that exceeded the maximum limits specified in the Pilot Operating Handbook (POH).
- A sudden gust of wind caused a rapid right-hand bank that the pilot had insufficient altitude to correct.
- The aircraft's excursion from the runway led to the nose gear digging into ploughed soil, triggering the nose-over.
- The wind conditions at the time of the accident were consistent with the official SAWS report from FALE, showing winds from the north-east.