Well-known local businessman dies in plane crash

Van Heerden was the only occupant in the plane and died on the scene. According to the spokesperson for the Civil Aviation Authority, Kabelo Ledwaba, “The accident and incident investigation division has started the process of gathering information that will assist in establishing the cause of a fatal aircraft accident that happened on November 6, just outside the old Nelspruit Airport.

“The aircraft, a Cirrus SR22, was attempting to land when it crashed at around 15:55. It had taken off from Hazyview Aerodrome on a private flight and with the intention to land at Nelspruit Aerodrome.

“The evidence collection phase will define the size and scope of the investigation as well as the anticipated time frame for the completion of a final accident investigation report,” said Ledwaba.

An eyewitness, who wished to remain anonymous, gave his account of how the incident played out. According to him, the pilot attempted to land on the runway, and despite a strong wind coming across it from right to left, the pilot seemed to have everything under control.

Once the aircraft hit the ground the pilot seemed to lose control. “The plane basically bounced on the runway and then immediately became airborne again. The pilot then gave full power and turned outward toward the left, to the trees’ side.”

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The witness, being a pilot himself, explained that an aircraft needs wind from the front to remain in the air, but the pilot, unfortunately, had wind from the back.

He said this caused the aircraft to come to a halt, the right-wing hitting a tree, and it eventually hitting the ground and catching fire. He mentioned that the reason for the left turn was unclear to them, because, in a situation like that, the pilot would fly straight ahead, gain enough height and speed, fly in a circle, and attempt a safe landing again.

“But the wind was just not in his favour to safely build up height to attempt another landing. “Being a pilot myself, to witness something like this is quite traumatic.”

He said he felt sick immediately and just realised the importance of the techniques and procedures that pilots have to learn.

Ledwaba said, “It is vital to point out that investigations can vary in complexity and may at times take a bit of time to complete.

“However, should a critical safety issue be identified during the course of the investigation, the investigating team will then immediately notify relevant parties so that appropriate action can be taken.”

A preliminary report will be issued within 30 days from the day of this accident. In instances where an investigation takes longer than 12 months to complete, the investigation team is expected to issue an interim statement to indicate the progress made at that particular point in time.

The completion of an investigation is marked by the release of a final accident report. The family chose not to speak to Hazyview Herald.

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