What happened
On 04 May 2006, a Cessna 172, registration ZS-NTO, was conducting a training check flight when it departed from the runway at Kitty Hawk Aerodrome (FAKT). The flight, which began at Wonderboom Aerodrome (FAWB), was intended to include several circuits and landings. During the first landing attempt on Runway 01, the aircraft's approach was noted as being slightly high. While speed was maintained at 80 knots until short finals, it was reduced to 75 knots just before touchdown.
Although the initial flare was successful, the aircraft ballooned to roughly 8 feet above ground level upon contact with the runway. After the instructor assisted the student in recovering from this ballooning, the aircraft proceeded to land. However, during the braking phase, the aircraft began to skid approximately 100 meters after touchdown. Despite attempts to manage the braking pressure, the skidding continued. As the aircraft's speed dropped to roughly 10 knots without the expected acceleration, a semi ground loop developed. The pilot managed to avoid a collision with a tree, but the aircraft exited the end of the runway at approximately 5 knots, tipping forward before coming to a stop in the grass. There were 0 fatalities and 0 injuries.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight maneuvers and the mechanical performance of the braking system. Investigators looked into the sequence of the landing, specifically the transition from the flare to the touchdown and the subsequent application of brakes. The inspection of the aircraft's maintenance history noted that the last Mandatory Periodical Inspection had been completed in March 2006.
Findings
- The primary cause of the excursion was brake system inefficiency resulting from high-speed braking.
- The aircraft may have been too high and fast on approach, leading to a hard landing that triggered the ballooning effect and subsequent braking issues.
- The instructor did not intervene with the student's landing technique in a timely manner.