Accident Overview
On 5 June 2003, at 0600Z, a Piper PA28-140 (registration ZS-FAS) operated by a private pilot on a private flight experienced an accident while landing at Baltimore military aerodrome. The aircraft had departed from Polokwane International Airport and intended to land at Baltimore, located approximately 67 nautical miles northwest of Polokwane. The weather at the time was fine with no wind.
Sequence of Events
Prior to touchdown, the pilot encountered a sudden gust of wind, which caused the aircraft to veer off the runway. In response, the pilot applied full power for a go-around. The aircraft began to climb but the pilot was unable to maintain directional control and level flight. Subsequently, the aircraft descended and the left wing collided with a tree situated to the left of the runway. Upon impact, the left wing was severed, and the aircraft swung through 180 degrees. The rear of the aircraft then struck bush vegetation, causing severe damage to the fuselage and empennage.
Both occupants, the pilot and one passenger, escaped unhurt.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The aircraft had been maintained as prescribed. The next mandatory periodic inspection (MPI) was due on 13 March 2004 or at 5,743 hours, whichever occurred first. Since the last MPI, the aircraft had been operated for 92 hours.
The pilot held a valid private pilot license and was 43 years old. His total flying experience was 49.4 hours, of which 29.5 hours were on type. Prior permission from the military had been obtained to land at Baltimore aerodrome.
Probable Cause
The pilot lost directional control on landing due to a sudden gust of wind.