Piper PA28-140 Serious Incident at Port Alfred Aerodrome (ZS-PGC)

Incident Overview and Flight History On 17 September 2013, a Piper PA28-140, registration ZS-PGC, operated by 43 Air School (Pty) Ltd, was involved in a serious incident at Port Alfred Aerodrome (FAPA) in the Eastern Cape. The aircraft was on a solo training flight authorized by a designated flight instructor. The student pilot departed FAPA for the general flying area and returned approximately one hour later. The approach to runway 28L was stable, and the student completed the final approach checklist and configured the aircraft for landing. ## Sequence of Events During the landing flare, the pilot applied excessive back pressure on the control column, causing the aircraft to balloon. The student attempted a go-around, but the aircraft touched down on its nose wheel and veered to the right. In an effort to regain directional control, the pilot applied left rudder, which caused the aircraft to veer to the left of the runway. The aircraft traveled parallel to the runway until the nose wheel dug into soft soil, breaking the nose oleo strut. The aircraft came to rest approximately 55 meters from the touchdown point, facing west. ## Damage and Injuries The student pilot, a 21-year-old female with 33.9 total flight hours, was not injured and evacuated the aircraft unassisted. The aircraft sustained minor damage to the propeller, nose gear, and oleo strut. There was no evidence of pre- or post-impact fire. ## Investigation Findings The investigation determined that the pilot was appropriately licensed and qualified for the flight. The aircraft was serviceable and maintained in accordance with regulations. Weather conditions, including a surface wind of 8 knots, were within the aircraft's limitations and did not contribute to the incident. The probable cause was identified as the pilot applying excessive back pressure on the control column during the landing flare, resulting in a balloon. A contributory factor was the pilot's limited flight experience.