What happened
On 5 May 2010, a Piper PA23-250, registration ZS-JLU, was performing a private flight departing from Runway 08 at Zebula Lodge near Bela-Bela. Shortly after takeoff, while the pilot was executing a right-hand turn, the cockpit door unexpectedly swung open. This sudden event created significant noise and severe buffeting within the cabin.
In response to the incident, the pilot performed a teardrop maneuver to return to the airfield for an emergency landing on Runway 26. However, the combination of the sudden distraction and the limited time available during the maneuver led to a critical error: the pilot failed to extend the landing gear. Consequently, the aircraft struck the runway on its belly and veered off the paved surface. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, sustained no injuries.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the circumstances surrounding the landing and the condition of the aircraft. The investigation confirmed that the weather conditions were excellent, with calm winds and clear visibility. The aircraft's maintenance records showed that the last mandatory periodic inspection had been completed approximately 30 hours prior to the incident.
Investigators also reviewed the aircraft's physical state, noting that the impact caused superficial damage to the engine propeller blades, the undercarriage doors, and the lower surface of the fuselage. The investigation determined that the pilot was properly licensed and medically fit to fly.