What happened
On 26 February 2022, a Jabiru J4-30 aircraft, registration ZU-IKG, was conducting a Part 141 training flight at Rhino Park Aerodrome in Gauteng. The flight, intended for circuit training to assist a student pilot with type conversion, commenced with an uneventful takeoff from Runway 27. The student pilot, acting as the pilot flying, successfully completed several simulated engine failure procedures and standard landing exercises.
During the third circuit, while on final approach, the student pilot experienced a sudden, pronounced sinking sensation. The instructor attempted to intervene by taking control and increasing power, but the maneuver was unsuccessful in preventing the descent. The aircraft's main landing gear struck the edge of the runway with significant force, resulting in substantial damage to the left main landing gear strut. Both occupants escaped the incident without injury.
The investigation
SACAA AIID reviewed the flight parameters and the operational environment. The investigation confirmed that the weather conditions were within visual meteorological limits, with clear skies and good visibility. The crew's licenses and medical certificates were found to be valid at the time of the occurrence.
Regarding the aircraft, the Jabiru J430 had undergone its annual inspection earlier that year, and its maintenance records were up to date. The investigation also noted a specific environmental factor: the instructor reported that a pond located near the threshold of Runway 27 often creates a perceived 'sinking' sensation for pilots flying over it during the approach phase.