Accident Details
On 29 March 2005, at approximately 1130Z, a Piper PA34-200T aircraft, registration ZS-LXA, was operated on a commercial charter flight from Johannesburg International Airport (FAJS) to Lanseria International Airport (FALA). The pilot, aged 54, held a valid license and had accumulated 309 total flying hours, including 43 hours on type. The aircraft had a valid air operating certificate (CAA/N509D) issued on 22 February 2005 and expiring on 10 March 2006. The last maintenance inspection was carried out on 21 January 2005 at a total airframe time of 5054.5 hours, with an additional 37.6 hours flown since.
Sequence of Events
While landing on Runway 06L at Lanseria Aerodrome, approximately 100 meters after touchdown, the pilot perceived that the right-hand tyre had deflated, though it was not flat. The pilot applied right rudder and ailerons to correct. At a distance of about 200 to 300 meters down the runway, at an indicated airspeed of less than 60 knots, the right-hand wing began dragging. The right-hand propeller struck the runway surface, and the aircraft veered off to the right side of the runway.
Damage and Injuries
Both occupants, the pilot and one passenger, escaped without injury. The right-hand propeller and the right-hand main landing gear sustained damage; the propeller was specifically noted as damaged. Minimal damage occurred to the airframe.
Meteorological Conditions
At the time of the accident, wind was from 360 degrees at 8 knots, temperature was 24°C, cloud base was at 4000 feet, and visibility was good.
Probable Cause
The accident was attributed to the possibility of the aircraft being landed before the gear was fully down and locked.