What happened
On 23 May 2018, a Raptor microlight, registration ZU-CWI, was performing a private pleasure flight from Microland Airfield (FABA) in Gauteng Province. The flight was intended to be part of a 67-hour journey across South Africa, with the next destination being Jakkalsdans Airstrip.
During the takeoff roll on Runway 03, the aircraft failed to gain sufficient altitude. In response to the lack of climb, the pilot attempted to abort the takeoff and return to the runway. This maneuver resulted in a hard landing, causing the aircraft to veer to the left of the runway centerline. The aircraft eventually came to a stop approximately 150 meters from the start of the initial takeoff roll. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft's fuselage, wings, propeller, and landing gear. The pilot and the passenger both sustained minor injuries but were able to exit the aircraft without assistance.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the aircraft's weight and balance, as well as the environmental conditions at the time of the incident. The aircraft's takeoff weight was calculated at 401.4 kg, which was well within the maximum allowable limit of 450 kg. Meteorological data indicated fine visual meteorological conditions (VMC) with light northerly winds. While the pilot suggested the possibility of a microburst or downdraft, official weather records from the South African Weather Service showed no evidence of such phenomena in the vicinity.
Mechanical inspections performed by a subsequent owner revealed that the engine was turning freely and no mechanical failures were identified. The pilot held valid licensing and medical certification at the time of the occurrence.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was that the aircraft was rotated before reaching the required takeoff speed, which prevented the aircraft from climbing.
- The pilot's decision to abort the takeoff led to a hard landing on the remaining runway.
- The loss of directional control during the landing caused the aircraft to veer off the runway.
- There were no recorded mechanical defects on the aircraft's flight folio prior to the accident.