Loss of Control During Landing at Krugersdorp Aerodrome

Casualties unknown • Runway 08 at Krugersdorp Aerodrome, ZA

A Cessna 182P experienced a runway excursion at Krugersdorp Aerodrome after the pilot-flying became unresponsive on the controls during the landing roll.

What happened

On September 10, 2003, a CESSNA 182P, registration ZS-NTC, was conducting a flight involving a potential buyer for the aircraft. The flight originated from Krugersdorp Aerodrome (FAKR) with an intended landing at Parys Aerodrome (FAPY). During the approach to Parys, the crew encountered a mechanical issue where the flaps failed to extend, likely resulting from an electrical motor failure. The pilot-in-command successfully performed a flapless landing at Parys before returning to Krugersdorp.

Upon returning to FAKR, the crew prepared for a landing on Runway 08. The aircraft approached the runway threshold at approximately 95mph, which was considered excessive for the conditions. Due to this high approach speed and a slight tailwind, the aircraft floated significantly, touching down halfway down the runway. Following touchdown, the pilot-flying applied heavy braking. Despite instructions from the pilot-in-command to release the brakes, the pilot-flying repeatedly applied them. The aircraft eventually veered across the threshold of Runway 26 and exited the airfield via an embankment.

The investigation

SACAA AIID investigators examined the flight sequence and the mechanical state of the aircraft. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft had undergone a Mandatory Periodic Inspection (MPI) in June 2003, with 83.6 hours flown since that inspection. The investigators also assessed the cockpit environment, noting that the pilot-flying was a pilot with limited proficiency, and that the crew had been discussing the previous flapless landing procedure during the flight.

Findings

  • The aircraft experienced a high-speed approach and a long float during touchdown due to excessive approach speed and a tailwind component.
  • The pilot-flying applied full braking and subsequently froze on both rudder pedals, preventing effective directional control.
  • The pilot-in-command was unable to regain sufficient control of the aircraft to execute a corrective maneuver or ground loop to avoid the excursion.
  • The aircraft sustained substantial damage, including the nose wheel assembly being torn from the airframe, though there were no injuries to the occupants.

Probable cause

The pilot-in-command was unable to maintain directional control of the aircraft during the landing roll because the pilot-flying became unresponsive and froze on the rudder pedals and brakes.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2003-09-10 Cessna 182 P accident near Runway 08 at Krugersdorp Aerodrome, ZA?

A Cessna 182P experienced a runway excursion at Krugersdorp Aerodrome after the pilot-flying became unresponsive on the controls during the landing roll.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2003-09-10 involved a Cessna 182 P, registration ZS-NTC, at Runway 08 at Krugersdorp Aerodrome, ZA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot-in-command was unable to maintain directional control of the aircraft during the landing roll because the pilot-flying became unresponsive and froze on the rudder pedals and brakes.

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