What happened
On 02 March 2007, a Pegasus Quantum 15-912 was conducting a training flight at Cullinan Aerodrome. The flight, consisting of an instructor and a student pilot, was intended to practice circuits and landings in preparation for an upcoming flight test.
During the final touch-and-go maneuver on Runway 35, the student pilot lost directional control of the aircraft immediately after touchdown. As the instructor attempted to intervene by advising the application of full power, the engine failed to respond normally, instead producing a smothering noise. Unable to maintain lift, the student pilot steered the aircraft toward the left of the runway to avoid trees at the runway's end. During this maneuver, the aircraft's wing struck the trees, causing the aircraft to flip over. Both occupants escaped the 0 fatalities incident without injury.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the aircraft and the circumstances surrounding the training operation. Post-incident inspections of the engine by an Approved Person revealed no significant mechanical anomalies, and ground-run tests showed the engine was functioning normally. The investigation also looked into the aircraft's configuration and the student pilot's previous reports regarding braking performance.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the student pilot losing directional control of the aircraft following touchdown.
- A significant contributing factor was the aircraft's design, which lacked dual foot controls for the instructor. This limitation meant the instructor could only use the trapezium control bar and was unable to assist the student with engine power or rudder inputs.
- The weather conditions were calm with excellent visibility (CAVOK).
- Maintenance records indicated the aircraft was properly maintained and had a valid Authority to Fly.