What happened
On the afternoon of 12 April 2024, a Vans RV4, registration ZU-AVM, departed from Tedder and intended to fly to Brakpan Aerodrome. The flight was being conducted under visual meteorological conditions for private purposes. After completing pre-flight checks, the aircraft took off from Runway 29.
During the initial climb, at an altitude of approximately 80 feet, the aircraft performed a slight right-hand turn. As the aircraft approached Runway 11, the pilot executed a 180-degree turn to the left. During this maneuver, the aircraft lost altitude and struck the ground near the hangars on the left side of the runway. The impact caused the aircraft to tumble forward, with the propeller striking the ground multiple times, indicating the engine was still producing significant power at the moment of impact. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, and a hangar barrier was also struck during the sequence.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the wreckage and reviewed available surveillance footage from the aerodrome's CCTV system. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft's maintenance records were up to date, with the most recent service completed in October 2023. The aircraft was found to have been maintained according to manufacturer standards, and all necessary certificates, including the Authority to Fly, were valid at the time of the accident.
Medical assessments revealed that while the passenger escaped the wreckage unassisted and without injury, the pilot was trapped in the cockpit. Rescuers had to cut into the fuselage to reach him. The pilot sustained serious injuries to his legs and minor facial lacerations and was subsequently transported to a hospital via ambulance.
Findings
- The aircraft experienced a loss of altitude during a 180-degree left turn.
- The engine was delivering substantial power at the time of the crash, as evidenced by propeller impact marks.
- The pilot's leg injuries were compounded by the fact that he was trapped within the cockpit, requiring a forced entry by rescue personnel.
- Weather conditions at the time of the accident were clear with good visibility.