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Panther III Ground Impact at Winterveld (ZS-KKR)

Winterveld, South AfricaLanding (descent or approach)

On May 7, 2008, a Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain (registration ZS-KKR) operated by Torquip Transmission Services was involved in an aviation accident near Winterveld, South Africa during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Hit a rock on the ground after landing. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

A Panther III aircraft struck a rock on the ground after landing at Winterveld, tearing off the right main gear and causing severe right-wing damage. No injuries were reported, and the aircraft was written off.

Incident Overview and Location Details The incident occurred at Winterveld, where a Panther III version aircraft made a landing. Following touchdown, the aircraft encountered a rock on the ground, initiating a sequence of structural failures and directional deviation. ## Impact Mechanics and Damage Assessment The collision with the rock resulted in the right main landing gear being torn off the airframe. The loss of the right main gear caused the aircraft to veer to the right. The aircraft ultimately came to rest with its right wing severely damaged. ## Casualties and Final Disposition No persons were injured during the incident. The extent of the structural damage sustained by the aircraft was assessed as beyond repair, resulting in the total loss of the airframe.

Probable cause

Hit a rock on the ground after landing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 7 May 2008 Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain accident near Winterveld, South Africa?

A Panther III aircraft struck a rock on the ground after landing at Winterveld, tearing off the right main gear and causing severe right-wing damage. No injuries were reported, and the aircraft was written off.

Were there any fatalities in the 7 May 2008 Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 7 May 2008 involved a Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain, registration ZS-KKR, operated by Torquip Transmission Services, at Winterveld, South Africa.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Hit a rock on the ground after landing.

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