Incident Overview
On 20 December 2005 at approximately 1300Z, a Piper PA38-112 aircraft, registration ZS-KHV, was engaged in circuit-and-landing training at Port Elizabeth Aerodrome (FAPE). The aircraft was operated by an accredited training organization. The instructor and a student were on board; neither sustained injuries.
Sequence of Events
The flight departed from runway 26 for circuit-and-landing exercises. During the third touch-and-go, upon landing, the right-hand main landing gear collapsed. The instructor attempted to keep the right wing off the ground and shut down the engine to prevent a propeller strike. The aircraft then veered off the right side of the runway onto the grass.
Aircraft Damage
The aircraft sustained slight damage to the right-hand aileron and the right-hand main landing gear assembly. No other damage was reported.
Meteorological Conditions
The weather at the time was fine, with surface wind from 240° at 15 knots and a temperature of 20°C.
Probable Cause
Failure of the upper attachment bolt of the leaf spring type landing gear.