What happened
On 13 April 2000, during a routine flight training session, a student pilot was performing circuit training at Krugersdorp Aerodrome. While attempting to land the Pietenpol, registration ZS-WFJ, the pilot lost directional control of the aircraft. As the plane veered off the runway and into the adjacent long grass, the left undercarriage struck a molehill. This impact caused the aircraft to nose over.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events during the landing phase and the physical impact that led to the aircraft's instability. It was established that the aircraft was operating under fine weather conditions at the time of the incident. The impact with the ground obstacle resulted in several points of damage to the airframe, specifically affecting the engine cowling, the air filter, and one propeller blade. Additionally, the left undercarriage sustained damage during the excursion.
Findings
- The primary factor in the incident was the loss of directional control by the student pilot during the landing sequence.
- The presence of a molehill in the grass area adjacent to the runway contributed to the aircraft nosed over after the initial veer-off.
- There were no fatalities or injuries resulting from this occurrence.