What happened
On the night of 11 August 2022, a Piper PA-28-161 Warrior II, registered ZS-SXS, was conducting a night circuit training flight at Beaufort West Aerodrome in the Western Cape. During the first touch-and-go maneuver, the crew observed a small antelope on the runway centerline. The instructor immediately assumed control of the aircraft, but the nose landing gear struck the animal during the takeoff roll.
Following the strike, the instructor performed two additional circuits without landing to allow for a runway inspection. During the subsequent approach, the instructor reduced the airspeed to approximately 60 knots—below the recommended 70 knots specified in the Pilot’s Operating Handbook—to facilitate a visual inspection of the landing gear by the control officer. Although the officer reported the gear appeared intact, the instructor shut off the engine prior to touchdown to protect the propeller. Upon landing, the nose gear collapsed, causing the aircraft to veer left and come to a stop on the side of Runway 08. There were 0 fatalities and 0 injuries among the two occupants.
The investigation
The SACAA AIID investigation confirmed that the flight was being conducted under Part 141 regulations and that the aircraft's weight and balance were within limits. The aircraft had undergone a periodic inspection approximately 61 hours prior to the event, and its Certificate of Airworthiness was valid. The investigation also noted that the instructor's licenses and medical certificates were current.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the collision with an antelope during the takeoff roll.
- The nose landing gear oleo, torque link, and engine cowling sustained substantial damage due to the subsequent gear collapse during landing.
- The antelope gained access to the airfield because the perimeter fence, a 1.2-meter wire mesh structure, was compromised by holes created by porcupines and tortoises.
- The existing fencing was found to be insufficient in height and strength to prevent wildlife from entering the aerodrome grounds.
Safety action
- The operator is exploring the installation of infrared cameras to improve the detection of animal activity during night operations.
- Training organizations are advised to ensure that nighttime training is only conducted at aerodromes with secure fencing to prevent unauthorized animal access.