What happened
On 29 March 2005, a PIPER PA34-200T, registered as ZS-LXA, was conducting a commercial charter flight from Johannesburg International Airport to Lanseria International Airport. During the landing phase on Runway 06L, the aircraft touched down under favorable meteorological conditions.
Shortly after touchdown, approximately 100 meters along the runway, the pilot experienced a sensation suggesting the right main tire had gone flat. In an attempt to maintain directional control, the pilot applied right rudder and aileron inputs. However, as the aircraft progressed further down the runway, the right wing began to drag against the surface. At a speed of less than 60 knots, the right propeller struck the runway, causing the aircraft to veer off the right side of the runway. There were 0 fatalities and 0 injuries among the two occupants, who escaped the wreckage safely.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft and its maintenance history following the excursion. The aircraft's last maintenance inspection had been completed on 21 January 2005, with 37.6 flight hours accumulated since that check. The operator held a valid Air Operating Certificate at the time of the event. The physical damage to the aircraft included a collapsed right main landing gear and damage to the right-hand propeller and airframe.