Accident Overview
On 30 November 2000, at approximately 1155z, a Piper PA28-180 aircraft, registered ZS-MTU, was involved in an accident during landing at Port Alfred, South Africa. The aircraft was being operated for a training flight, with a private pilot in command who had logged 213.7 total flying hours, including 60.9 hours on type.
Flight History
The pilot had completed a cross-country training flight from Port Alfred to East London and Bisho before returning to Port Alfred. The intended landing was back at Port Alfred.
Accident Sequence
According to the pilot, the final approach appeared normal. Upon touchdown, the aircraft bounced. When it contacted the runway again, it veered towards the grass adjacent to the runway. The pilot was unable to maintain directional control, and the aircraft left the paved surface. The nose landing gear and propeller sustained damage during the grass excursion.
Meteorological Conditions
The weather at the time of the accident was reported as fine.
Occupants and Injuries
The aircraft carried one occupant, the pilot. No injuries were reported, and there were no fatalities.
Damage
The accident resulted in damage to the nose landing gear and propeller. The extent of damage to other parts of the aircraft was not specified in the report.
Probable Cause
The South African Civil Aviation Authority determined that the probable cause of the accident was the pilot's loss of directional control of the aircraft during landing.