History of Flight
On Wednesday, 25 February 2026, a pilot operating an Air Tractor AT502-A aircraft, registered ZS-XAP, departed on a crop-spraying flight from Hulpmekaar Farm, northwest of Wesselsbron in the Free State province. The flight was conducted under visual meteorological conditions (VMC) by day, in accordance with Part 137 of the Civil Aviation Regulations (CAR) 2011. The intention was to land back at the same farm after the operation.
The operator reported that the pilot took off from Hulpmekaar Farm in the morning and proceeded to Qwaggavlakte Farm, approximately 10 nautical miles west of Wesselsbron. Upon arrival, the pilot descended to a lower altitude and began spraying insecticide on maize crops. Around 1235Z, the pilot landed back at Hulpmekaar Farm to refill the hopper tank with approximately 1800 litres of insecticide, then took off again to continue operations.
Witness Accounts
At approximately 1252Z, a first eyewitness, driving on the R34 road, observed the aircraft engaged in crop-spraying on a maize field at low level. She noted that after each spray run, the aircraft flew over the road dividing two sections of the farm in a northerly direction. Later, the aircraft climbed and initiated a right turn. Moments later, it entered a spin, completing about three rotations before disappearing from her line of sight. At that time, the aircraft descended and impacted the ground.
A second eyewitness, a truck driver also on the R34 road, saw the aircraft as it descended and crashed. He stopped his truck, climbed on top of it, and observed the aircraft's tail section protruding in the maize field.
Injuries and Damage
The aircraft was destroyed in the accident. The pilot sustained fatal injuries.
Investigation
The Accident and Incident Investigations Division (AIID) was notified and dispatched investigators to the site. The investigation is being conducted in accordance with CAR 2011 Part 12 and ICAO Annex 13. The State of Design and Manufacturer appointed a non-travelling accredited representative. Further information will be released in subsequent reports.
Probable Cause
The probable cause has not yet been determined. The investigation is ongoing.