History of Flight
On 11 November 2007, a Piper PA-32-300 (registration ZS-EXY) departed New Tempe Aerodrome at approximately 0900Z on a private visual flight rules (VFR) flight with the pilot and two passengers. The aircraft arrived at Philipolus Aerodrome at approximately 1000Z and prepared to land on Runway 36. As the pilot was about to touch down, the wind direction changed and gusted from the left side, causing the aircraft to drift to the right side of the runway. The pilot decided not to attempt a go-around and instead landed on unprepared rough ground adjacent to the runway. The landing was successful, but during the landing roll, the nose wheel struck an ant hill and broke off. The aircraft sustained a propeller strike, which caused damage to the engine.
Injuries and Damage
No injuries were sustained by the pilot or passengers. The aircraft sustained major damage, including to the nose gear, bottom nose section engine cowling, propeller, and engine. The nose wheel collapsed after striking the ant hill. The propeller blades bent due to impact, and the sudden engine stoppage caused further engine damage.
Meteorological Information
At the time of the incident, the wind was from 360° at 15 knots, temperature 30°C, visibility clear. The pilot obtained this information from the Weather Service Website.
Probable Cause
The pilot experienced a crosswind component that forced the aircraft to yaw to the right-hand side of the runway. The aircraft landed on unprepared rough ground, its nose wheel impacting an ant hill and causing the nose wheel to break off.