What happened
On 3 December 2001, a Partenavia P-64B, registration ZS-VMH, was conducting a private flight in the Thabazimbi district. The aircraft, carrying a pilot and three passengers, initially departed from Thabazimbi Aerodrome using Runway 07. During the flight, the pilot observed a shift in wind direction that made Runway 25 more favorable for landing. Consequently, the pilot performed a go-around to reposition for an approach on Runway 25.
While on final approach for Runway 25, the pilot configured the aircraft with two notches of flap at an approach speed of 90 mph. Because the first 300 meters of the gravel runway surface were uneven, the pilot chose to land further down the runway. Although the touchdown itself was normal, the aircraft maintained excessive speed during the rollout. Despite applying maximum braking pressure, the aircraft began to skid sideways before the pilot regained directional control.
Realizing the remaining runway length was insufficient to stop, the pilot shut down the engine before the aircraft breached the boundary fence. The aircraft then skidded across the adjacent Hammerkop public road, eventually coming to a stop on the far side. There were nil injuries to the occupants, though the aircraft sustained damage to the propeller, the nose-oleo, and a small hole in the left wing.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the landing and the runway conditions at Thabazimbi Aerodrome. The investigation focused on the pilot's decision-making regarding the landing point and the impact of the runway surface on braking effectiveness. The inquiry also assessed the influence of changing meteorological conditions on the approach and landing phase.