Introduction
On 23 September 2007 at 1200Z, a Cessna 172 aircraft, registered as ZS-LXE, was involved in an incident while preparing for a training flight in the circuit at Grand Central Aerodrome (FAGC). The aircraft was occupied by an instructor and a student pilot.
Pre-Take-Off Sequence
The instructor performed the required power checks at the holding point of runway 17. After completing these checks, she requested and received take-off clearance from the air traffic control tower.
Incident
As the aircraft was turning right to line up on runway 17, the right main gear tyre burst. This caused the aircraft to tilt to the right. The instructor promptly notified the tower of the situation.
Emergency Response
The air traffic controller dispatched emergency services to the scene. After assessment, the aircraft was removed from the runway, allowing normal operations to resume.
Damage and Injuries
The extent of aircraft damage was confined to the right-hand main gear tyre. Importantly, there were no injuries to either the instructor or the student.
Weather
Meteorological conditions were reported as CAVOK, signifying clear skies and good visibility.