A light aircraft accident which claimed the life of an aviation student is being investigated following her solo circuit and landing flight at the Wonderboom Airport in Pretoria, Gauteng, yesterday.

According to reports, the grade 11 learner has been identified as Anika de Beer (16). She was the only person on the training flight when the accident happened. De Beer would have celebrated her 17th birthday on Friday 4 July.

The Accident and Incident Investigation Division (AIID) spokesperson, Kabelo Ledwaba, says the flight was taking off at the Wonderboom Airport and was expected to land at the same airport.

He says the evidence collection phase has begun and a report will be issued within a time frame of 30 days.

He says that should a critical safety issue be identified in the investigation, the relevant authorities will be informed and actions will be taken. Ledwaba also states investigations can normally take longer to be completed because of their different complexities.

He says there are "instances where an investigation takes longer than 12 months to complete. The investigation team would be expected to issue an interim statement to indicate the progress made at that particular point in time."

He says "a final report containing safety recommendations aimed at improving the levels of aviation safety and the prevention of a similar accident is often issued when the investigations is complete."

The school De Beer attended, Hoërskool Montana, posted a tribute on social media on Wednesday, which read: “A few days ago, before the accident, Anika completed her solo flight which was one of her greatest dreams. Our deepest sympathy goes out to her parents, family, friends and to all who loved Anika. May you feel God’s presence during this time.”

De Beer was a member of the Professional Flight Centre at the Wonderboom Airport.

OFM News