What happened
On 1 May 2022, a Piper PA28-180, registration ZS-FYH, departed from Goedehoop Farm Private Airstrip in the Free State province for a short local flight. The aircraft, operated under private flight regulations, was carrying the pilot and three passengers. After approximately 30 minutes of flight, the aircraft returned to the same gravel airstrip for landing.
During the landing roll on Runway 2/21, the pilot lost directional control of the aircraft. The plane veered toward the left side of the runway before exiting the airstrip and coming to a stop in a ditch. While there were no fatalities, the pilot and one passenger sustained injuries and required hospital treatment. The aircraft suffered substantial damage to its fuselage, propeller, landing gear, and left wing.
The investigation
Investigators reviewed the aircraft's maintenance and the pilot's credentials. The aircraft's most recent mandatory periodic inspection had been completed in December 2021, and its Certificate of Airworthiness was valid at the time of the event. The pilot held a valid Private Pilot Licence with a Class 2 medical certificate.
Technical review of the approach revealed a discrepancy in airspeed. The pilot reported an approach speed of 80 knots; however, the Pilot’s Operating Handbook for the Piper PA28-180 specifies a required approach speed of 73 knots.
Findings
- The aircraft was unstable on final approach due to an excessive approach speed.
- The pilot lost directional control of the aircraft during the landing phase on the gravel surface.