Accident
On 3 June 1999, at approximately 1530 Z, a Cessna 172 XP (registration ZS-JXB) was involved in an accident while on approach to Port Alfred, South Africa. The aircraft was being operated on a private flight from Bloemfontein to Port Alfred.
Aircraft and Pilot
The aircraft, a Cessna 172 XP, was piloted by the holder of a Private Pilot Licence (PPL) with a total of 725 flying hours, including 144 hours on type. The flight carried three passengers in addition to the pilot.
Narrative
During the approach to Port Alfred, the pilot experienced a sudden change in aircraft attitude and the stall warning activated. In response, the pilot applied full power and selected an additional 10° of flaps, hoping the extra flap setting would help raise the nose. However, the left wing tip struck a tree approximately 300 meters from the runway threshold. The aircraft then contacted the ground 35 meters from the initial impact and came to rest 12 meters further against a tree.
Injuries
All four occupants were injured. The three passengers sustained minor injuries, while the pilot was more seriously injured.
Probable Cause
The pilot came in too low and slow on the approach and allowed the airspeed to decay to the point where one wing stalled and contacted a tree prior to impact.