What happened
On 28 March 2014, a student pilot operating a Piper 28-180, registration ZS-PEV, was conducting a solo training flight departing from Port Alfred Aerodrome (FAPA). During the initial approach to Runway 2-8R, the pilot identified that the aircraft was too high and performed a successful go-around.
However, during the subsequent second approach, the pilot again found the aircraft at an excessive altitude. In an attempt to correct the glide path, the pilot reduced engine power and pitched the nose downward, which caused the airspeed to increase. The aircraft touched down significantly past the intended point on the runway. Upon landing, the pilot applied excessive right rudder, causing the aircraft to veer off the right side of the runway centerline. The aircraft continued to roll for approximately 170 meters before coming to a stop. The pilot sustained no injuries, though the aircraft suffered minor damage to the fuselage, propeller, and landing gear.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight sequence, the pilot's experience, and the mechanical state of the aircraft. The student pilot had 50.8 total flying hours and held a valid medical certificate and student pilot license. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft was maintained according to approved schedules and possessed a valid Certificate of Airworthiness. No mechanical defects were found in the flight controls, steering, or braking mechanisms prior to the incident. Meteorological conditions were also reviewed and found to be clear with light winds, indicating that weather was not a factor.
Findings
- The pilot failed to recognize that the second approach was unstable and did not initiate a second go-around.
- The pilot's attempt to correct altitude by reducing power and pitching down led to an excessive touchdown point.
- The pilot lost directional control of the aircraft after touchdown due to excessive rudder input.