What happened
On the morning of 31 July 2025, a private flight departing from Potchefstroom Aerodrome (FAPS) in the North West Province resulted in a serious incident. The pilot, operating a Fournier RF-4D with registration ZU-UEH, completed a routine flight under visual meteorological conditions. After landing on Runway 03, the pilot attempted to backtrack the aircraft toward the parking area.
During a right-hand turn, a significant crosswind from the left increased the aircraft's turning radius. Unable to complete the maneuver within the runway boundaries, the pilot taxied onto the adjacent grass area. The uneven surface and higher rolling resistance of the grass, combined with the aircraft's tailwheel configuration which obscured the view of the terrain, led to the main landing gear striking an unmarked depression. This impact caused the nose to pitch forward abruptly, resulting in the propeller blades striking the ground and fracturing.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the circumstances surrounding the ground maneuver and the environmental conditions at the time of the incident. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft was well-maintained, with a valid authority to fly and a recent annual inspection. The pilot held a valid National Pilot Licence and had extensive flying experience, including 65 hours on this specific type.
Investigators analyzed the wind components, determining that the aircraft was experiencing a 2.70-knot headwind and a 12.72-knot crosswind. While this crosswind was within the manufacturer's maximum demonstrated limit of 15 knots, the investigation noted that such winds can significantly challenge ground handling for tailwheel aircraft.
Findings
- The aircraft's tailwheel configuration placed it in a nose-up attitude, preventing the pilot from detecting the depression in the terrain while taxiing on the grass.
- A crosswind-induced loss of directional control during the ground maneuver forced the aircraft to deviate from the runway onto the unpaved surface.
- The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the propeller due to the impact with the ground.