What happened
On 16 December 2013, a Cessna 172L, registration ZS-PXH, was conducting a private VFR flight from Pilanesburg International Airport to Lanseria International Airport. The aircraft was carrying the pilot and two passengers. During the approach to Runway 07, the aircraft's landing gear struck the airport's approach lighting system approximately 400 meters before the runway threshold.
Despite the impact, the pilot managed to complete the landing on the runway. During the rollout, the aircraft drifted approximately five meters to the left of the centerline before the pilot regained control and taxied the aircraft to a hangar. There were no injuries to the occupants, though the collision caused damage to four approach lights and two runway threshold lights.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight parameters and the mechanical state of the aircraft. At the time of the incident, the aircraft was configured with full flaps, maintaining an airspeed of 75 knots and a power setting of 2100 RPM. Investigators reviewed the maintenance records of the Cessna 172L, confirming that the aircraft had been maintained by an approved organization and was in compliance with all airworthiness regulations. The pilot's license and medical certification were also found to be valid.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was that the pilot undershot the runway, leading to the collision with the approach and runway lighting systems.
- A contributing factor was identified as poor landing technique.
- The investigation noted that the pilot likely failed to recognize the undershoot and did not apply sufficient power to arrest the descent rate.
- The aircraft sustained minor damage to the propeller, horizontal stabilizer, and gear struts.