Synopsis
On 18 June 2005 at 0630Z, a private pilot accompanied by a passenger departed from Progress Flight Academy at Port Elizabeth for a cross-country flight. The flight intended to pass through George Aerodrome, Willowmore, Knysna, Sedgefield, and Wilderness before landing at George Aerodrome and returning to Port Elizabeth. The pilot aimed to accumulate flight hours toward a Commercial licence. According to the Flying School, pre-flight meteorological information indicated fine weather with winds not exceeding 5 to 10 knots.
Circumstances
At approximately 0821Z, the pilot reported to George ATC being overhead Knysna and was instructed to report next at Wilderness. Overhead Sedgefield, wind speed began increasing, and while overhead Wilderness, strong surface wind conditions of 360° at 35 to 50 knots were reported.
Cleared for landing on Runway 02 at George Aerodrome, the pilot selected 10° of flap and approached at an indicated airspeed of 80 to 90 knots. On touchdown, the aircraft became airborne, prompting a go-around. During the second attempt, the aircraft landed without incident.
The pilot was cleared to backtrack and taxi to the apron. However, during the turn towards the apron, a strong gust of wind suddenly blew the aircraft over.
Injuries and Damage
Both occupants escaped unharmed. The left and right wings, vertical stabilizer, and propeller sustained damage.
Aircraft Information
The aircraft, registration ZS-LHK, was a Cessna 172. The last Mandatory Periodic Inspection (MPI) was certified on 25 May 2005 at 8647.0 airframe hours, with an additional 37.4 hours flown since. Progress Flight Academy held a valid ATO Certificate (CAA 0087) valid until 26 June 2005 and had been audited on 17 June 2005. The Flight School stated they do not permit takeoffs when strong winds are reported. The Approved Maintenance Organisation (AMO 89) was audited on 23 November 2004 and 20 April 2005, with its certificate renewed until 29 April 2006.
Probable Cause
The pilot landed safely during strong gust wind conditions but the aircraft was suddenly flipped over by severe gust wind conditions during taxing to the parking area.