What happened
On 6 June 2014, a Pitts S-2B, registration ZS-OOB, was conducting a private flight at Rand aerodrome. The flight, which included a passenger, began with a takeoff from Runway 17, followed by two successful circuits. After completing one landing on Runway 29, the pilot entered a second circuit on the same runway.
During the landing phase of the second circuit, the aircraft encountered a crosswind component from the left. As the aircraft decelerated, the reduced airflow over the tail surfaces diminished the effectiveness of the rudder. The pilot was unable to maintain directional stability, causing the nose to skew to the left. This resulted in a ground loop that caused the right-hand main landing gear tyre to burst and the right lower wing tip to scrape the grass, damaging the wing's canvas.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the flight parameters, the pilot's credentials, and the aircraft's maintenance history. The investigation confirmed that the pilot held a valid Commercial Pilot licence and a current medical certificate. The aircraft was found to be airworthy, with its last mandatory periodic inspection completed approximately three months prior to the incident.
Investigators also analyzed the environmental conditions. While the wind forecast suggested a different direction and speed, the pilot reported a left-hand crosswind component. Calculations determined this component was approximately 3 knots, well within the 20-knot maximum safe crosswind limit for this aircraft type.
Findings
- The pilot was properly certified and qualified for the operation.
- The aircraft was fully serviceable and within its weight limits.
- Loss of directional control occurred because the rudder became less effective as the aircraft slowed down during the landing roll.
- The crosswind component, while within safe limits, contributed to the initial yawing motion that the pilot could not counteract.