Wicknell Chivayo chopper crash — Initial probe complete
The Government has completed preliminary on-site investigations into the fatal helicopter crash that claimed the lives of businessman Mr Wicknell Chivhayo, his wife Mrs Lucy Muteke-Chivayo and three others at Kudenga Farm in Mashonaland East Province last week.
The Bell 430 helicopter, registered Z-PED and operated by Sky Helicopters Private Limited, crashed on September 30 while on a private flight from Gandami in Chikomba District to Marondera.
All five people on board died in the accident, including the pilot, Captain Calvin Soda, Ms Sanelisiwe Magagula and Captain Courage Mutavira.
Cabinet received an update on the accident from Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona, who said a full investigation had been instituted in accordance with Annexure 13 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation and Civil Aviation Act Chapter 13:15.
In his post-Cabinet briefing yesterday, Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services
Dr Zhemu Soda said the findings will be made public.
He said the preliminary on-site investigations have since been concluded, with the wreckage recovered and taken to the Government Hangar at Charles Prince Airport for detailed forensic examination
“The public is informed that a full investigation was instituted pursuant to Annexure 13 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation and Civil Aviation Act Chapter 13:15. Preliminary on-site investigations have been concluded, with the wreckage being recovered to the Government Hanger at Charles Prince Airport to allow for detailed forensic examination including international experts,” said Dr Soda.
The examination is expected to involve international experts as investigators seek to establish the circumstances and possible causes of the crash.
The Government has not yet released findings on what caused the helicopter to crash, with the ongoing forensic examination expected to provide further evidence to the investigation.
The accident sparked widespread mourning following the deaths of the five occupants.
Ms Magagula, who was Mrs Muteke-Chivayo’s aide, was laid to rest at her rural home in Daluka village, Lupane on Monday. The two pilots were laid to rest in separate ceremonies in Marondera and Chiredzi respectively on Sunday.
Mr Chivayo and his wife will be laid to rest tomorrow at Glen Forest Cemetery in Harare.
Dr Soda said a preliminary report will be expected within 30 days of the accident, in line with international investigation standards, detailing examination of the wreckage, meteorological information including the weather, maintenance records, operator, and crew records.
“Further updates will be given as the nation mourns together with the bereaved families on this tragic and sad loss,” he said.
Under international civil aviation procedures, accident investigations are intended to establish the facts and identify factors that may help prevent similar accidents, rather than apportion blame or liability. *_-Herald_*
