What happened
On the morning of 20 November 2024, a Cessna T188C, registration ZS-OSU, was performing a private flight departing from Kroonstad Aerodrome (FAKS) in the Free State. The aircraft, which had recently undergone an engine overhaul, was in the middle of a 25-hour break-in period intended to prepare it for agricultural spraying operations.
During the takeoff roll on Runway 07, the pilot experienced a sudden wind gust from the left as the tail lifted. In an attempt to maintain the centerline, the pilot applied right rudder; however, the control input failed to counteract the movement. The aircraft veered left of the runway and traveled across the grass. The impact caused the right main landing gear and wheel assembly to break away, subsequently leading the propeller and right wing to strike the ground. There were 0 fatalities and no injuries were reported.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the circumstances surrounding the departure, including the aircraft's maintenance status and meteorological conditions. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft was operating under visual meteorological conditions with a light north wind of approximately 5 knots. The aircraft had flown 19.9 hours since the installation of a new Continental TSIO-520-T engine.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the loss of directional control following a sudden left-side wind gust.
- The pilot's application of right rudder was ineffective in preventing the aircraft from veering off the runway.
- The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the landing gear, wing, and propeller.