Accident Overview
On 20 August 2021 at approximately 0740Z, a Cessna 172M aircraft (registration ZS-STP) departed from Wonderboom Aerodrome (FAWB) for a solo circuit training flight. The pilot, a 20-year-old female student with 46.7 total flying hours (8.7 on type), conducted two circuits on Runway 29 without incident. Weather reported wind from 090° at 5 knots.
Landing Sequence
Cleared to land on Runway 29, the student pilot performed a landing with a tailwind. During touchdown, the aircraft bounced once and then contacted the runway nose landing gear first. The pilot applied brakes but could not maintain directional control, and the aircraft veered left off the runway before coming to a stop.
Damage and Injuries
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft's firewall. The student pilot was not injured.
Weather Information
According to the South African Weather Service, conditions around 0800Z were: wind 090° at 4 knots, temperature 21°C, dew point -2°C, QNH 1021.
ATC Communication
ATC recordings indicated clearance for touch-and-go with light and variable wind. At 08:00:24, the pilot acknowledged touch-and-go on Runway 29. Subsequently, at 08:00:46, ATC instructed another aircraft (JBO) to go-around.
Probable Cause
The investigation stated: "It is possible that the aircraft was too high on final approach and landed hard before it bounced; thereafter, the pilot lost directional control as a result of a damaged nose gear."