What happened
On 11 November 2007, a Piper PA-32-300 operating on a private VFR flight departed New Tempe Aerodrome for Philipolus Aerodrome. The flight, which included the pilot and two passengers, proceeded normally until the final approach to Runway 36. As the aircraft neared the runway, a sudden shift in wind direction created a strong crosswind from the left side of the aircraft. This wind component caused the aircraft to yaw and drift laterally toward the right side of the runway.
Because the aircraft was already configured for landing, the pilot determined that a go-around was not feasible. To avoid an uncontrolled excursion, the pilot opted to land on the unprepared, rough ground adjacent to the runway. While the landing itself was successful, the aircraft's nose wheel struck an ant hill during the landing roll. This impact caused the nose gear to collapse, leading to a propeller strike and significant damage to the engine and cowling. There were no injuries to the occupants.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the circumstances surrounding the landing at the unlicensed Philipolus Aerodrome. The investigation reviewed meteorological data, which indicated a wind direction of 360° at 15 knots. Investigators also looked into the pilot's pre-flight preparations, noting that the pilot had used the Weather Service Website to check conditions en route.
The inquiry focused on the aircraft's configuration at the time of the wind shift and the physical state of the landing area. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft's nose section was initially aligned with the runway centerline before the crosswind forced the lateral drift. The investigation also verified the maintenance status of the aircraft and the suitability of the maintenance organization involved.