What happened
On the afternoon of 18 July 2022, a Cessna 172M with registration ZS-PSW was conducting a private flight from Grand Central Aerodrome to Zebula Aerodrome. The flight, operated under visual flight rules, included the pilot and one passenger.
As the aircraft was on short final approach to Runway 26, the pilot observed a group of giraffes crossing the runway from left to right. In an attempt to avoid a collision with the animals, the pilot applied full power during the flare to initiate a go-around. However, the sudden application of power caused the aircraft to touch down heavily and bounce due to a loss of airspeed. The pilot subsequently lost directional control, causing the aircraft to veer off the left side of the runway and strike a perimeter fence approximately 5ered 55 metres from the runway edge. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the wings, propeller, and spinner, though both occupants were able to exit the aircraft without injury.
The investigation
The SACAA AIID investigation reviewed the pilot's credentials, the aircraft's maintenance history, and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The pilot held a valid Private Pilot Licence with a night rating and a current medical certificate. The Cessna 172M was fully compliant with its maintenance requirements, having undergone a mandatory periodic inspection just days prior to the flight.
Investigators also examined the specific challenges of the Zebula Aerodrome. As an unmanned airfield located within a game reserve, the runway is not fenced, and wild animals frequently roam the area. Furthermore, the investigation noted that the timing of the landing was near sunset, which can make spotting wildlife significantly more difficult due to the sun's position relative to the approach path. The aerodrome is also not equipped with landing lights.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the loss of directional control on the ground following an unsuccessful go-around attempt.
- The pilot's decision to apply full power during the flare, intended to avoid wildlife, resulted in a hard touchdown and a loss of airspeed.
- The investigation identified improper flight planning as a contributing factor, particularly regarding the difficulties of spotting animals during late-afternoon approaches near sunset.