What happened
On 29 June 2023, a student pilot operating a Piper PA22-108 (registration ZS-OKV) was conducting a training flight from Brakpan Airfield in Gauteng. The flight, performed under Part 141 regulations, initially proceeded without issue, including a routine departure and a brief excursion to Ergo Slimes Dam.
During the return to Brakpan Airfield, the pilot approached Runway 36 at approximately 80 knots. Noticing the glide path was too high, the pilot attempted to correct the angle by reducing power. The aircraft subsequently bounced during touchdown and landed deep on the runway. During the second contact, the pilot lost directional control, causing the aircraft to veer onto the grass. The impact resulted in the collapse of the nose landing gear and contact between the propeller and the ground. While the aircraft suffered substantial damage, there were no injuries.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the flight sequence and the pilot's circumstances. An instructor at the airfield observed the aircraft on final approach and noted the high glide path. The instructor witnessed the pilot announce a go-around, but observed that the aircraft did not immediately climb. Shortly after, the pilot announced a decision to land, at which point the aircraft descended sharply and impacted the runway with the nose wheel.
The investigation also reviewed the pilot's recent history, noting that the student had worked a night shift immediately prior to the flight. Furthermore, the investigation looked into the aircraft's maintenance records, confirming the Piper PA22-108 was airworthy and had undergone a recent maintenance inspection in May 2023.
Findings
- The approach speed of 80 knots exceeded the 60-knot glide speed recommended in the aircraft's owner's manual.
- The pilot's decision-making was likely compromised by fatigue following a recent night shift.
- There was a possibility that the pilot experienced a visual illusion regarding the aircraft's climb rate due to the rising terrain of the airfield.
- The pilot may have been under personal pressure to complete flight training before returning to overseas contract work.
- The primary cause of the accident was an unstable approach leading to a bounce and subsequent nose gear collapse.
- A contributing factor was the inconsistent decision-making process of transitioning from a go-around back to a landing attempt.
Safety action
Following the incident, the training school suspended the student pilot from flying to provide remedial instruction on aeronautical decision-making and managing unusual flight situations. The school also advised the student to avoid rushing training sessions to prevent similar occurrences.