What happened
On 03 January 2007, a Piper PA28-181, registration ZS-LVX, was performing a private flight departing from an unlicensed open-field airstrip near Lady Frere. During the takeoff roll, approximately 300 meters from the threshold, the aircraft drifted to the left of the unpaved runway. During this maneuver, the left main landing gear struck an anthill located near the edge of the field.
Despite the impact, the crew continued the flight to their destination at East London Aerodrome (FAEL). However, the structural integrity of the undercarriage had been compromised. Upon touchdown on Runway 11, the left wing settled onto the runway surface, causing the aircraft to skid for about 15 meters before coming to a halt. There were no injuries to the two crew members on board.
The investigation
An investigation by the SACAA AIID examined the sequence of events and the mechanical state of the aircraft. Investigators determined that the impact with the anthill caused the left main landing gear's lower strut, including the oleo piston and wheel assembly, to separate from the airframe. Specifically, the failure occurred at the torque link lower attachment and the piston-to-cylinder attachment points.
The investigation confirmed that the pilot held a valid commercial license and was properly rated for the operation. Furthermore, maintenance records indicated that the aircraft had been maintained in accordance with applicable civil aviation regulations, and the maintenance organization had recently passed audits without findings. Meteorological conditions at the time of the accident were favorable, with light winds and good visibility.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the left main wheel making contact with an anthroll during the takeoff roll.
- The impact resulted in the separation of the left main landing gear lower strut from the aircraft.
- The aircraft's approach to East London Aerodrome was normal, but the damaged gear could not support the aircraft during touchdown, leading to the left wing striking the runway.
- The aircraft sustained damage to the left-hand undercarriage, the left-hand wing, and the tail plane.