History of Flight
On 15 January 2023, at approximately 0515Z, a flight instructor and a pilot departed from Grand Central Aerodrome (FAGC) in Gauteng province aboard a Piper PA-30-160 Twin Comanche, registration ZS-EAW, for a multi-engine conversion training flight. The pilot held a Private Pilot Licence (PPL), and the instructor held a Grade II rating. The flight was conducted under visual flight rules (VFR) in visual meteorological conditions (VMC) by day, in accordance with Part 141 of the Civil Aviation Regulations. A flight plan had been filed. Clear weather conditions prevailed.
After performing three circuits at FAGC lasting approximately 33 minutes, the crew requested and received clearance from air traffic control (ATC) to proceed to the Johannesburg General Flying Area (GFA). During the third circuit, at about 0548Z, they had requested this clearance. The aircraft then departed the circuit area.
Accident Sequence
Eyewitnesses observed the aircraft flying at a reduced speed at an altitude of approximately 600 feet above ground level (AGL). They reported that the aircraft suddenly pitched up and then entered a nose-down spiral toward the ground. The aircraft impacted the dump site at Crown Mines, near the National Recreation Centre (NASREC) in southern Johannesburg. The accident occurred at 0605Z.
Injuries and Damage
The aircraft was destroyed on impact. Both occupants sustained fatal injuries.
Aircraft Information
The aircraft was a Piper PA-30-160 Twin Comanche, registration ZS-EAW, operated by Flight Training Services (FTS). It was engaged in a training flight under Part 141 of the CAR 2011.
Investigation
The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) Accident and Incident Investigations Division (AIID) is conducting an investigation. The State of Design and Manufacturer was notified but did not appoint an accredited representative. This preliminary report contains information gathered during the ongoing investigation and is subject to change as new evidence emerges.