What happened
On the afternoon of 3 February 2023, a student pilot was completing a solo navigation exercise in a Cessna 172S Skyhawk, registration ZS-TB/BK. The flight, conducted under Part 141 training regulations, was returning to Beaufort West Aerodrome (FABW) in the Western Cape after visits to Willowmore and Aberdeen.
Upon returning to the aerodrome, the pilot joined the left downwind leg for Runway 08 at an elevation of 3929 feet. During the approach, the aircraft became unstable. As the pilot attempted the round-out, the aircraft ballooned, leading to a heavy touchdown and a subsequent bounce. This sequence caused the pilot to lose control, resulting in the wings striking the runway surface and the nose gear detaching. The aircraft then skidded across the runway, causing substantial damage to the airframe, including the propeller, engine cowling, and fuselage. The pilot sustained one injury and required hospital treatment.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the flight conditions and aircraft maintenance records. At the time of the accident, weather conditions were clear with visual meteorological conditions prevailing. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft had undergone a mandatory periodic inspection just days prior to the flight and held a valid Certificate of Airworthiness. The pilot held a valid Student Pilot Licence and a Class 2 medical certificate.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the aircraft ballooning during the round-out phase following an unstable approach.
- A contributing factor was the presence of an effective crosswind of approximately 8 knots during the landing.
- The loss of control led to the structural failure of the nose gear and significant contact between the wing and the runway.
Safety action
While no formal safety recommendations were issued for this specific occurrence, the investigation highlighted a safety message for Approved Training Organisations (ATOs). It is recommended that ATOs emphasize the necessity of executing a go-around when an approach is unstable. Furthermore, ATOs should implement procedures to better evaluate a student's ability to manage emergency recoveries before authorizing solo training.