History of Flight
On 8 June 2025, a Piper PA-28-180 aircraft, registration ZS-CZU, was one of three aircraft that departed Virginia Aerodrome (FAVG) in KwaZulu-Natal province on a private flight. The pilots flew in a loose formation, planning to route along the coast to Richards Bay Aerodrome (FARB), then inland to Ladysmith Aerodrome (FALY) for refueling, before continuing to Wonderboom Aerodrome (FAWB) in Gauteng province. Only one of the three aircraft, ZS-EIL, landed at FALY. ZS-CZU and the other aircraft, ZS-KFB, each performed two approaches for Runway 29 at FALY but could not land. FALY has no runway lights.
Diversion and IMC Encounter
The two aircraft subsequently diverted to Greytown Aerodrome (FAGY). One requirement for landing at FAGY at night is that pilots must be instrument flight (IF) rated; however, none of the pilots in either ZS-CZU or ZS-KFB held an IF rating. The pilot flying (PF) of ZS-CZU reported entering instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) as they encountered thick mist in the vicinity of FAGY. He stated he had no visual reference of the ground or runway lights. The pilot-in-command (PIC) had a map and an iPad with a navigational application, which she referenced. She was able to verify that the terrain below consisted mostly of agricultural land.
Controlled Crash Landing
The PF elected to perform a controlled crash landing by executing a controlled spiral descent. The aircraft came to rest in an upright position in a sugarcane field on Bloemhof Farm near Greytown, KwaZulu-Natal.
Injuries and Damage
The PF was not injured, while the PIC sustained minor injuries to her face. The aircraft was substantially damaged. The accident occurred on 8 June 2025 at 1630Z. According to the South African Civil Aviation Authority's preliminary report, the investigation is ongoing.