AIID probes two aircraft accidents in Gauteng and Northern Cape

The Accidents and Incidents Investigations Division (AIID) has confirmed it is investigating two separate aviation accidents that occurred on Sunday, involving a light aircraft and a helicopter in Gauteng and the Northern Cape.

According to the division, the first incident occurred at approximately 11:20am at Hoërskool Alberton, where a Tecnam P92 Echo aircraft, registration ZU-BJX, made an emergency landing on the school’s rugby field. The aircraft had two people on board; a flight instructor and a student pilot; both of whom escaped without injuries.

However, the light aircraft collided with the school’s tuckshop, resulting in damage to the aircraft and parts of the building.

The AIID said the aircraft had departed from Rand Airport for a Private Pilot Licence skills test and was returning to the same airport when it experienced engine stoppage, leading to a forced landing.

“An AIID investigator was dispatched to the site to collect evidence for a final report that will be issued once the investigation is complete,” the division said.

The City of Ekurhuleni’s Disaster and Emergency Management Services (DEMS) confirmed that firefighters and paramedics were dispatched to the scene immediately after receiving the alert.

“Upon arrival, they found the light aircraft had crashed into the school’s tuckshop. The instructor and student were conducting a final evaluation flight test for a private pilot licence when they experienced engine failure, necessitating an emergency landing. Fortunately, both escaped uninjured,” said City spokesperson Tikkie MacDonald.

MacDonald added that the incident has been reported to the Civil Aviation Authority and is under investigation.

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) said that while the school building suffered damage, learning and the ongoing National Senior Certificate examinations would continue as planned.

GDE spokesperson Steve Mabona said parents were advised to ensure learners bring their own food to school as repairs to the tuckshop are being arranged.

“The GDE commends the school’s management, emergency services and aviation authorities for their prompt response to this incident,” Mabona said.

In a separate accident also on Sunday, an Alouette helicopter, registration ZU-RAL, crashed near Danielskuil in the Northern Cape, killing all three people on board the pilot and two passengers.

Preliminary information indicates that the helicopter was engaged in game reserve operations when it went down. The aircraft was destroyed by a post-impact fire following a severe impact with the ground.

“Investigators have been dispatched to the site, and a preliminary report will be published on the SACAA website within 30 days of the accident. AIID extends its condolences to the families and friends of the deceased,” the division said.

According to data from the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA), 113 aviation accidents were reported in the 2022/23 financial year, including nine fatal accidents. In 2023/24, the number rose slightly to 114 accidents, with 13 fatal crashes and 19 fatalities. By March 2024, 97 accidents had already been recorded across the country, resulting in 13 deaths. Most of these incidents involved light aircraft and private operations, with Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Western Cape recording the highest numbers.

The AIID continues to urge pilots and operators to adhere strictly to safety and maintenance regulations as investigations into both Sunday’s accidents continue.