What happened
On 1 February 2024, a Piper PA28-140, registration ZS-ELL, was performing circuit and landing practice at Wonderboom Aerodrome (FAWB) in Gauteng Province. The flight was being conducted under Part 91 regulations as part of an hour-building session.
While the initial circuit and landing on Runway 29 were completed without incident, the pilot encountered a crosswind from the right during the second landing attempt. The pilot was unable to apply sufficient correction for this wind, resulting in a loss of directional control. The aircraft drifted to the left of the runway, eventually coming to a stop approximately 5 metres from the runway edge. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the propeller, nose gear oleo, right-wing tip, and lower cowling, though the pilot escaped without injury.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the aircraft's maintenance and the meteorological conditions at the time of the event. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft was airworthy, with a valid Certificate of Airworthiness and a recent mandatory periodic inspection completed in January 2024. The engine had also undergone an overhaul less than 50 hours prior to the accident.
Regarding the environment, the investigation noted that the wind direction was 030 degrees with a speed of 5 knots. While the crosswind component was approximately 4.92 knots—well within the 17-knot maximum demonstrated crosswind specified in the Pilot’s Operating Handbook—it was identified as a contributing factor to the excursion.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the loss of directional control during the landing phase.
- A crosswind from the right side of the aircraft contributed to the aircraft veering off the runway.
- The pilot did not timely compensate for the wind's effect on the aircraft's path.