What happened
On 21 September 2013, a private local flight involving a Cheetah XLS (registration ZU-FKU) experienced an accident during an approach to the Numbi Hotel airstrip in Hazy andview, Mpumalanga. While attempting to land on runway 19, the aircraft was pushed left of the centerline by a crosswind, resulting in a touchdown slightly left of the runway surface. Following the initial contact, the microlight bounced several times across the grass. During this sequence, the aircraft's left wing struck an electric perimeter fence, causing substantial damage to the wing and propeller. Both the pilot and the passenger evacuated the aircraft unassisted, and no injuries were reported.
The investigation
An off-site investigation by the SACAA AIID examined the circumstances surrounding the landing. Investigators reviewed the aircraft's maintenance records, finding that the Cheetah XLS was fully serviceable and maintained by an accredited professional. The aircraft's weight and balance were within safe operating limits, and the fuel load was sufficient for the intended flight. Meteorological data provided by the pilot indicated a 13kt crosswind from the right, which was well within the manufacturer's maximum permitted limit of 27.8kt. The investigation also noted that the pilot was properly licensed and medically cleared, though recent flight frequency was low.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the loss of directional control during a crosswind landing.
- A significant contributing factor was the use of poor crosswind technique by the pilot.
- The aircraft touched down at a high speed, which led to the subsequent bounces on the runway.
- The landing surface was an uphill grass runway, which can influence aircraft handling during touchdown.