Overview
On 27 February 2026, at approximately 1256Z, a Piper PA-28-180 Cherokee (registration ZS-CJG) operated by a private pilot under Part 91 of the South African Civil Aviation Regulations experienced a serious incident during landing at Rand Airport (FAGM), Gauteng Province. The flight, which originated from Bram Fischer International Airport (FABL) in the Free State, was conducted under visual meteorological conditions by day.
Sequence of Events
The pilot reported an uneventful flight until the approach to Runway 29 at FAGM. Conditions included light rain and calm wind. The approach speed was approximately 80 mph with 25° flaps selected. After touchdown, the aircraft began to veer right. The pilot applied left rudder, but the aircraft oscillated and exited the runway to the left. During the excursion, the nose gear strut collapsed. The aircraft came to rest on the grass left of the runway. Both the pilot and the passenger were not injured.
Aircraft Examination
Subsequent inspection at an aircraft maintenance organisation revealed that the rudder was trimmed nose right. The trim control was functional and control cables showed continuity. However, due to damage to the nose gear, the investigating team could not accurately assess rudder control rigging or whether the rudder trim was affected. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.
Meteorological Conditions
The METAR for FAGM at 1200Z reported wind from 250° at 5 knots, temperature 25°C, dew point 10°C, visibility 10 km or more, broken clouds at 3,000 ft, and QNH 1021.
Pilot Interview
The pilot stated that during flight the aircraft exhibited a tendency to yaw and roll to the right, and he did not adjust the rudder trim. During the landing, after the aircraft veered right, he applied left rudder, but the aircraft oscillated as if about to overturn before exiting left.
Findings
The investigation determined that the right nose trim condition likely caused the aircraft to yaw and roll right in flight and impacted directional stability during the landing roll. This indicated the aircraft was probably unstable on approach and did not touch down in the area initially stated by the pilot.
Probable Cause
It is possible that the aircraft was unstable on final approach; consequently, after touchdown and during the landing roll, directional control was lost and the aircraft veered off the runway.
Contributing Factors
1. Poor airmanship. 2. Poor landing technique.