What happened
On 10 July 2018, a Convair 340/440, registration ZS-BRV, departed Wonderboom Aerodrome (FAWB) for a scheduled scenic flight to Pilanesberg Aerodrome. The aircraft was carrying two crew members and 17 passengers. Shortly after takeoff, the left engine caught fire. While the crew declared a 'MAYDAY' and attempted to return to the departure airfield, the fire intensified.
The escalating fire caused significant structural damage to the aircraft, specifically impacting the left aileron system and the rear spar of the left wing. As the aircraft struggled to maintain altitude, the crew lost directional control. The aircraft eventually struck power lines before crashing into a factory building in the Derdepoort industrial area. The accident resulted in one fatality and 18 injuries.
The investigation
An investigation by the SACAA AIID examined the aircraft's maintenance history and the flight sequence. The aircraft had recently undergone maintenance checks, including the repair and refitting of a manifold pressure gauge. Investigators also reviewed cockpit GoPro footage, which captured the moment flames appeared on the engine cowling and the subsequent loss of control. The investigation also noted that the crew's intended destination, Pilanesberg Aerodrome, was actually closed to fixed-wing aircraft at the time due to runway maintenance, a fact unknown to the crew and air traffic control at the time of departure.