History of Flight
On 3 January 2007, at approximately 1322Z, a Piper PA-28-181 (registration ZS-LVX) departed from a private airstrip at Lady Frere for a flight to East London Aerodrome. During the takeoff roll, about 300 meters from the threshold, the aircraft veered left and struck an anthill located roughly 0.5 meters from the edge of the open field. The impact caused the left main landing gear lower strut to separate from the aircraft. The crew continued the flight to East London.
Upon landing on Runway 11, during touchdown, the left wing settled on the runway. The aircraft skidded approximately 15 meters before coming to a halt on the left side of the runway.
Injuries and Damage
Both occupants (pilot and passenger) sustained no injuries. The aircraft sustained damage to the left-hand undercarriage, left-hand wing, and the tail plane. Minor scratch marks were observed on the runway.
Probable Cause
The left main wheel made contact with an anthill, causing the left main landing gear lower strut to separate from the aircraft.