What happened
On 15 May 2005, a Piper PA28RT-201T, registration ZS-MWN, was performing a private flight from Umfolozi Aerodrome to Newcastle Aerodrome. During the takeoff roll, as the aircraft approached rotation speed, the pilot observed an Impala moving toward the runway from the right side. To prevent a collision with the animal, the pilot executed an avoidance maneuver by allowing the aircraft to drift toward the left side of the runway.
During this maneuver, the left wingtip struck a tree located adjacent to the runway. The resulting drag from the impact caused the aircraft to veer sharply to the left and depart the paved surface. The aircraft subsequently collided with vegetation near the runway, resulting in damage to the fuselage, engine, propeller, wings, and undercarriage. There were zero fatalities and zero injuries among the three people on board.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance history and the operational environment at the time of the accident. Records indicated that the most recent Mandatory Periodic Inspection (MPI) was completed on 10 December 2004, with the aircraft having flown only 28 hours since that inspection. All relevant Airworthiness Directives, Service Bulletins, and Service Letters were documented as compliant.
Investigators also noted that Umfolozi Aerodrome is an unlicensed facility, meaning the responsibility for ensuring operational safety rests with the pilot. Meteorological conditions at the time of the incident were reported as CAVOK with a surface wind of 060 degrees at 15 knots.
Findings
- The pilot initiated a lateral movement to the left to avoid an animal on the runway.
- The left wingtip contact with a tree created enough drag to pull the aircraft off the runway.
- The aircraft sustained significant structural damage to several components including the engine and undercarriage.