What happened
On 23 March 2006, a Cessna U206A, registered ZS-POR, was conducting a private flight originating from Richards Bay Aerodrome. The intended itinerary included stops at Pilanesberg, Madikwe, and Kruger National Park. During the flight, the crew encountered unfavorable weather conditions, prompting a decision to divert to Parys Aerodrome.
Upon arriving at Parys, the pilot attempted a takeoff from Runway 06. During the initial roll, the pilot noted that the aircraft was experiencing a sluggish climb rate and insufficient airspeed. In an attempt to abort the takeoff, the pilot applied braking to bring the aircraft back onto the runway surface. However, the available runway length was inadequate to halt the momentum of the aircraft. The Cessna U206A continued past the end of the runway, traversing a grass field and striking a perimeter security wire fence. The aircraft eventually came to rest roughly 50 meters beyond the runway threshold.
There were three people on board during the incident, including the pilot and two passengers. All occupants sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's mechanical state and the pilot's operational history. The aircraft's maintenance records indicated that the most recent Mandatory Periodic Inspection (MPI) had been completed on 18 March 2006, with the airframe at 6602.25 hours. All relevant Airworthiness Directives and Service Bulletins were found to be up to date. The pilot held a valid Commercial Pilot License with the appropriate type rating for the aircraft.
Physical damage to the aircraft included the propeller, the engine cowling's underside, the cargo pack, and the nose landing gear fork, which sheared off during the excursion.
Findings
- The primary cause of the excursion was that the pilot employed incorrect takeoff procedures during the aborted attempt.
- The aircraft's momentum exceeded the stopping distance available on the runway surface following the decision to abort.