Incident Overview
On 18 July 2022, a Cessna 172M aircraft, registration ZS-PSW, departed Grand Central Aerodrome in Gauteng province for a flight to Zebula Aerodrome in Limpopo province. The flight was conducted under visual flight rules (VFR) by day, with clear weather conditions reported. The pilot and one passenger were on board; no injuries occurred.
Flight and Approach
The pilot reported that the flight to Zebula proceeded as scheduled. Upon reaching the aerodrome, the pilot followed the unmanned aerodrome joining procedure at 1000 feet above circuit altitude. No aircraft or animals were observed in the vicinity of the runway initially. The pilot then joined the circuit for landing on Runway 26.
Wildlife Encounter and Accident
While on short final approach, a tower of giraffes was in the process of crossing the runway from left to right. The pilot responded by applying full power during flare intending to execute a go-around. However, the aircraft touched down hard on the runway and bounced due to lost airspeed. The pilot subsequently lost directional control, and the aircraft veered left off the runway, colliding with the perimeter fence approximately 55 metres from the runway edge before coming to rest.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The aircraft, a Cessna 172M (serial number 17261665), sustained substantial damage to both wings, propeller, and spinner. It held a valid Certificate of Airworthiness expiring 31 July 2022 and had undergone a 50-hour mandatory periodic inspection on 13 July 2022. No pre-existing defects were recorded. The pilot held a valid Private Pilot Licence with a night rating and a Class 2 medical certificate without restrictions. Total flight experience was 121.7 hours on type, with 11.8 hours in the past 90 days.
Aerodrome Conditions
Zebula Aerodrome is unlicensed and unmanned. The Aeronautical Information Publication indicated sunset at 1534Z, close to the landing time, which made spotting wild animals difficult due to the approach direction facing the setting sun. The aerodrome is located in a game reserve, with a note that wild animals can roam on the runway and it is not fenced. The pilot followed the unmanned joining procedure.
Findings and Probable Cause
The investigation found that the pilot had appropriate licences and medical certification, and the aircraft was properly maintained. The probable cause of the accident was loss of directional control on the ground during the landing roll after a failed go-around in an attempt to avoid colliding with wildlife on the runway. A contributing factor was improper flight planning. No safety actions or recommendations were issued.