What happened
On 1 March 2002, a PIPER PA-28R-200, registered ZS-LVH, departed from Wonderboom Aerodrome (FAWB) for a private excursion toward the Hartebeespoort dam. The flight was carrying the pilot and three passengers. During the flight, the pilot flew toward Rosslyn and then returned to FAWB to perform a touch-and-go maneuver before proceeding to the intended destination.
During the landing attempt at FAWB, the pilot failed to deploy the landing gear. This resulted in a wheels-up landing on Runway 25. While there were no injuries to the four occupants on board, the impact caused substantial damage to the aircraft's propeller and the lower section of the fuselage.
The investigation
Investigators reviewed the circumstances surrounding the flight and the aircraft's operational status. The investigation confirmed that the weather conditions at the time of the accident were fine. The pilot held a valid private pilot licence, a valid night rating, and no medical restrictions were noted. Furthermore, records indicated that the aircraft had been maintained according to the required standards.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the pilot's failure to extend the landing gear prior to touchdown.
- Meteorological conditions were favorable and did not contribute to the incident.