Accident Details
On 2 May 1999, at approximately 1045Z, a Piper PA28-140 (registration ZS-FAC) was involved in an accident on Runway 30 at Cathedral Peak Aerodrome. The aircraft was operated as a private flight with two persons on board. No injuries were reported. The weather at the time was fine.
Sequence of Events
The flight originated from Brakpan Aerodrome. The pilot landed at Harrysmith Aerodrome to refuel. After refueling, the pilot released the park brake lever, but the brakes did not release properly. When the pilot started the engine and applied power, the brakes released. The flight then proceeded to Cathedral Peak. The pilot joined overhead the runway to inspect it. After confirming the runway was clear, the pilot positioned the aircraft for a long final approach. Full flaps were applied, and the aircraft landed on the grass surface runway.
Upon touchdown, the pilot applied brakes but experienced no braking effect. The pilot then applied the parking brake. The aircraft ran over unevenness on the runway surface, veered to the right, and impacted an embankment with the right-hand wing. The wing departed from the aircraft during this impact.
Investigation Findings
The on-site investigation revealed that the aircraft touched down deep on the runway and the wheels skidded all the way to the point where it was found after the accident.
Probable Cause
The pilot landed too deep on an unsafe runway with an aircraft that he was not very familiar with. The aircraft skidded off the runway and impacted with obstacles next to the runway.