Accident Overview
On July 10, 2001, a Cessna 172 (registration ZS-LMI) operated as a training flight departed from and intended to land at Lanseria Airport. The aircraft was occupied solely by a student pilot holding a valid licence with 38 total flight hours, all on the same type. The accident occurred at approximately 1010 UTC.
Sequence of Events
The pilot conducted an approach to land on Runway 06L. During the final approach, the surface wind was from 330 degrees at 10 knots. The pilot stated that he maintained an approach speed of 80 mph and compensated for the crosswind by applying left aileron and right rudder to keep the aircraft aligned with the runway centerline.
The aircraft touched down with the left main wheel first, followed by the right main wheel and finally the nose wheel. Immediately after touchdown, the aircraft's tail swung to the right, causing the aircraft to veer off the runway to the left. The aircraft crossed a small ridge between the runway and the taxiway. During the excursion, a person on the radio instructed the pilot to cut the magnetos, which he did. The aircraft then entered a ditch on the left side of the taxiway and came to a stop.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The aircraft was a Cessna 172. The pilot was a student with 38 hours total flying experience, all on the Cessna 172. The flight was conducted under training operations.
Meteorological Conditions
The weather was reported as fine with crosswind conditions. The surface wind was 330 degrees at 10 knots.
Probable Cause
The student pilot lost directional control of the aircraft during a crosswind landing.