What happened
On 10 March 2010, a Jihlavan KP 2U-Rapid 200, registration ZU-EUT, was conducting a training flight at Lanseria Aerodrome (FALA). The flight, which involved an instructor and a student pilot, was performing standard circuits and landings on Runway 24L.
During the landing sequence, the student pilot initiated a flare while on short finals. At this moment, the aircraft began to sink rapidly toward the runway surface. This sudden descent resulted in a tail strike, causing impact damage to the rudder. Following the bounce, the crew initiated a go-around and successfully landed the aircraft on a subsequent attempt. There were no injuries to the two occupants.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the flight history, weather conditions, and aircraft maintenance records. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft was being operated by an approved aviation training organisation and that both the instructor and student pilot held valid licenses and medical certificates.
Meteorological data indicated favorable flying conditions, with a temperature of 30°C and clear skies. The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's serviceability, finding no mechanical defects or malfunctions prior to the event. The aircraft's rudder sustained substantial damage from the impact with the runway.
Findings
- The student pilot was the pilot flying during the incident.
- The aircraft was in a serviceable condition with no pre-existing mechanical issues.
- The sudden loss of altitude during the flare was caused by wind shear conditions.
- The impact of the tail section against the runway resulted in damage to the rudder.