What happened
On 10 December 2006, a Cessna 172, registration ZS-IUD, was conducting a private flight with a pilot and three passengers. The aircraft departed from Lanseria International Aerodrome (FALA) for a flight lasting approximately two hours. During the return approach, Air Traffic Control (ATC) instructed the pilot to perform a go-around and reposition for a different runway due to a shift in wind direction.
During the reconfiguration, the pilot was presented with options for landing on either Runway 2ally 24L or 24R. The pilot initially chose Runway 24R but overshot the runway slightly during the maneuver. Following this, ATC provided the option to land on Runway 24L, which the pilot accepted. After touching down roughly 500 meters past the threshold of Runway 24L, the aircraft began veering toward the left. Despite efforts to maintain directional control, the aircraft exited the runway and entered a shallow ditch adjacent to the airfield. There were 0 fatalities and 0 injuries among the occupants, though the aircraft sustained propeller damage.
The investigation
Investigators examined the flight sequence and the operational conditions at the time of the incident. Meteorological data indicated a surface wind of 310 degrees at 10 knots. The investigation also reviewed the maintenance history of the aircraft, noting that the most recent Mandatory Periodic Inspection (MPI) had been completed on 1 December 2006, with only four airframe hours accumulated since that inspection. Records confirmed that all Airworthiness Directives (ADs) and Service Bulletins (SBs) were up to date, and the maintenance organization involved held a valid approval.
Findings
- The pilot experienced increased workload due to the rapid sequence of changing landing instructions.
- The pilot's decision to attempt a landing on Runway 24L after an unsuccessful attempt at 24R resulted in an unstable approach.
- The loss of directional control during the landing roll was further complicated by the prevailing crosswind conditions.