What happened
On 19 May 2007, a student pilot was conducting solo circuit training in a Jabiru SP, registration ZU-COX, at Swartkop Aerodrome. After dropping off an instructor, the pilot taxied to the holding point for runway 02 and initiated the takeoff roll with full throttle.
As the aircraft transitioned from the concrete surface to the asphalt runway, it experienced a slight bounce. This movement caused the aircraft to veer toward the left side of the runway. In an attempt to maintain the centerline, the pilot applied right rudder but subsequently overcorrected. The pilot then applied left rudder before reaching takeoff speed, causing the aircraft to depart the runway onto the grass.
In an effort to halt the aircraft, the pilot pulled back on the throttle; however, the throttle was accidentally pushed forward. This unintended acceleration caused the aircraft to strike a concrete marker with the right main landing gear, resulting in a gear collapse. The nose wheel also collapsed, and the propeller struck the ground before the aircraft came to a stop.
The investigation
An investigation by the SACAA AIID confirmed that the pilot held a valid student license with the appropriate type endorsement. The aircraft, a Jabiru SP, was found to have a valid authority to fly and a current certificate of registration. Records indicated the aircraft had undergone its last annual inspection in September 2006, and the maintenance organization involved held a valid approval.
Investigators examined the wreckage and found no evidence of mechanical failure or airframe malfunction. All flight controls were functional, and the damage to the right wing, landing gear, and propeller was attributed entirely to the impact with the concrete marker and the ground.
Findings
- The pilot overcorrected the aircraft with the rudder after losing directional control during the takeoff roll.
- The aircraft's departure from the runway was triggered by a slight bounce when transitioning between runway surfaces.
- An accidental forward movement of the throttle contributed to the collision with the runway marker.
- The pilot sustained no injuries during the incident.