Introduction
On 17 December 2002, a Piper PA-28R-200 aircraft, registration ZS-NHI, was involved in an accident during a training flight at Fisantekraal aerodrome (FAFK). The flight originated from Stellenbosch aerodrome (FASH). The aircraft was conducting practice short-field landings on Runway 32 in preparation for the private pilot's commercial pilot licence practical test.
Flight Details
The aircraft was occupied by the pilot-in-command, who held a commercial pilot licence with 2,375 total flying hours and 25 hours on type, and an instructor. The operation was training. Weather conditions were reported as CAVOK with wind from 300 degrees at 15 knots.
Accident Description
According to the instructor's statement, the trainee pilot successfully completed the first short-field approach and landing. After taking off for another approach, the aircraft was configured with full flap and landing gear down on final approach. The aircraft was slightly above the glide path. The trainee pilot reduced power, causing the aircraft to descend to just above the glide path, then increased power to arrest the descent. The approach continued slightly high on the glide path until approximately 100 feet above ground level (AGL), when power was further reduced, increasing the sink rate. The aircraft descended below the intended glide path. The instructor, realizing an undershoot, instructed the trainee to apply more power. The instructor felt the trainee did not apply sufficient power and had to apply full power in an attempt to arrest the high rate of descent and prevent landing short of the runway. The aircraft continued descending and collided with bushes in the undershoot area of the selected runway.
Damage and Injuries
The landing gear collapsed after impact, and the aircraft skidded approximately 30 meters, coming to rest left of the runway centerline. The aircraft sustained substantial damage. No injuries were reported among the two occupants.
Probable Cause
The instructor allowed the aircraft to descend too far below the intended glide path during a short-field landing and applied corrective action too late. This resulted in the aircraft touching down short of the threshold of Runway 32 and resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft.