Chivayo Helicopter Crash Preliminary Report Expected Friday

The preliminary report into the helicopter crash that claimed the lives of businessman Wicknell Chivayo, his wife and three other people is expected to be released by Friday, October 30, as investigations into the fatal accident continue.

The Government had indicated that the report would be ready within 30 days of the September 30 crash, in line with international aviation investigation procedures.

Information Minister Zhemu Soda said earlier this month that initial investigations at the crash site had been completed, with the helicopter wreckage transferred to the Government Hangar at Charles Prince Airport for further technical examinations.

The examinations involve international experts who are assisting local investigators in establishing the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Investigators are assessing several factors, including the condition of the wreckage, weather conditions at the time of the crash, aircraft maintenance records and documentation relating to the operator and crew.

The Bell 430 helicopter, registered as Z-PED and operated by Sky Helicopters Private Limited, crashed at Kudenga Farm in Waddilove, Marondera, Mashonaland East Province, at approximately 5pm on September 30.

The aircraft was reportedly travelling from Gandami Village in Chikomba District towards Marondera when the accident occurred.

All five people aboard the helicopter died, including Chivayo, his wife Lucy Muteke, her aide Sanelisiwe Magagula, and pilots Captain Calvin Soda and Captain Courage Mutavirwa.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe previously indicated that fuel spilled when the helicopter struck the ground, resulting in a fire at the scene. However, the cause of the crash remains undetermined.

Under Annex 13 of the Convention on International Civil Aviation, a preliminary report is generally expected within 30 days of an aircraft accident. The document provides initial factual findings and an update on the investigation, rather than a definitive explanation of what caused the crash.

Further investigations are expected to continue after the preliminary report as specialists examine technical evidence and reconstruct the events leading to the accident.

Authorities have not yet established or officially announced the cause of the fatal crash.