Overview
On 3 September 2025, at approximately 0825Z, a Piper PA-28-140 Cherokee, registration ZS-FHH, sustained substantial damage during a training flight at Lanseria International Airport (FALA), Gauteng Province. The sole occupant, a student pilot (SP) holding a Student Pilot Licence (SPL), was not injured. The flight was conducted under Part 141 of the South African Civil Aviation Regulations in visual meteorological conditions (VMC).
Flight History
The SP, accompanied by a flight instructor (FI), initially conducted three touch-and-go landings followed by a full-stop landing on Runway 07. After the FI was satisfied with the training, the FI disembarked, and the SP proceeded to conduct two additional touch-and-go exercises. The aircraft took off again at approximately 0815Z with engine power set at 2 300 RPM. The SP flew a right-side circuit pattern as instructed by air traffic control (ATC), communicating on tower frequency 124.00 MHz.
During the downwind leg, the SP performed downwind checks, selected the first notch of flaps, and maintained 85 knots. After reporting ready for base leg, the ATC controller cleared the SP for final approach to Runway 07. On base leg, the SP selected two notches of flaps and maintained 75 knots, then turned final and selected three notches of flaps, maintaining 70 knots.
Accident Sequence
The aircraft touched down normally on Runway 07; however, during the landing roll it veered left of the centreline. The SP attempted to correct with right rudder but was unsuccessful. The aircraft continued left, exited the runway surface, and the nose landing gear strut collapsed. The propeller struck the ground, and the aircraft came to rest on the grass approximately 15 metres left of the runway edge. The ATC controller alerted the airport Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) team, which responded swiftly. The SP disembarked without assistance. The accident occurred at GPS coordinates 25°56’23”S 027°55’32”E, elevation 4 521 ft.
Findings
The SP had a valid Student Pilot Licence issued 18 May 2025, a Class 2 medical certificate with no restrictions, and 28.6 hours on type. The aircraft was maintained by an SACAA-approved organisation; its latest inspection was certified on 4 August 2025 at 7 582.2 total airframe hours, and it had a valid Certificate of Release to Service and Certificate of Airworthiness. The approved training organisation (ATO) held a valid certificate.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
The probable cause stated in the investigation is: "The aircraft was likely unstable during final approach which resulted in the SP losing directional control during the landing roll." A contributing factor was identified as lack of experience.
Safety Actions and Recommendations
No safety actions or recommendations were issued by the investigation.