What happened
On 23 January 2023, a Cessna 172 E with registration ZS-DVY was involved in an accident during a training flight at Cape Town International Airport (FACT). The flight, conducted under Part 1-41 regulations, was a training mission from the airport to the general flying area with an intended return to the aerodrome.
During the final approach for a full stop landing on Runway 01, the aircraft was traveling at an airspeed of 90-95 knots, significantly exceeding the 55-65 knots prescribed in the Pilot’s Operating Handbook. Although the student pilot managed to reduce the speed to 56 knots and set the flaps to 30 degrees before touchdown, the aircraft ballooned during the round-out phase. In an attempt to correct the ballooning, the pilot applied back pressure and increased power. This maneuver caused the right wing to drop and strike the ground, leading to a loss of control. The nose wheel subsequently struck the runway with enough force to break off, and the propeller blades made contact with the runway surface. The aircraft veered right and came to a stop on the grass approximately 30 meters from the runway edge. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the wing tip, propeller, and nose gear, though the pilot escaped without injury.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the aircraft's airworthiness and maintenance records, finding that the Cessna 172 E had a valid Certificate of Airworthiness and had undergone a maintenance inspection approximately 98 hours prior to the event. The investigation also reviewed the student pilot's credentials, noting a valid Student Pilot Licence and medical certificate. Weather conditions at the time of the accident were reported as visual meteorological conditions with a 15-knot wind.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the excessive airspeed on approach, which contributed to the aircraft ballooning during the flare.
- An incorrect recovery technique was employed by the pilot following the ballooning event, which led to the loss of control.
Safety action
Following the incident, the approved training organisation (ATO) implemented remedial training for the student pilot, totaling 3.8 hours, focusing on circuit procedures, controlled airspace operations, and emergency handling.