2024 Jabiru J430 Runway Excursion at Secunda Aerodrome (ZU-PPL)

Overview and Flight Details On 29 August 2024, a Jabiru J430 aircraft, registration ZU-PPL, was conducting a private flight from Rhino Park Airfield in Gauteng Province to Secunda Aerodrome (FASC) in Mpumalanga Province. The flight departed at 0925Z under visual meteorological conditions. The aircraft was carrying a pilot and two passengers. ## Accident Sequence During the approach to Runway 29, the pilot reported that a sudden gust of wind from the left lifted the wing, causing the aircraft to float for approximately 900 meters. The aircraft eventually touched down on the 1,100-meter runway. The pilot attempted to stop the aircraft using the brakes but was unsuccessful. After switching off the master switch, the pilot lost directional control, and the aircraft veered off to the left, exiting the runway near the threshold of Runway 11. ## Damage and Injuries The aircraft came to rest in a left-wing low attitude on the grass area next to the runway. The left main gear leg broke off approximately midspan. The aircraft sustained minor damage to the left main gear leg brake caliper, the propeller blade, and the ventral fin. No persons on board were injured. ## Meteorological and Operational Factors The crosswind component at the time of the flight was calculated at 13.16 knots from the left, which was within the aircraft's maximum demonstrated crosswind limit of 14 knots. The investigation noted that the aircraft was affected by a crosswind of 13.16 knots and a tailwind of 4.79 knots, which exacerbated the floating of the aircraft. The aircraft was operated within its allowable weight and center of gravity envelope. ## Investigation Findings The pilot held a valid Commercial Pilot Licence and a Class 1 aviation medical certificate. The aircraft had a valid Authority to Fly and Certificate of Registration. Post-accident inspections confirmed that the engine and propeller flange were within limits. The probable cause was identified as a sudden gust of wind that lifted the aircraft during the landing sequence, leading to a long landing and subsequent runway excursion. Contributing factors included incorrect crosswind landing technique and the decision not to perform a go-around.