What happened
On 19 May 2007, a Piper PA28-161, registration ZS-OSY, was performing a training flight departing from De Aar Aerodrome (FADA) bound for Victoria West Aerodrome (FAVW). During the take-off roll on Runway 03, the aircraft became airborne slightly before reaching rotation speed due to significant headwind conditions.
While flying in ground effect, a powerful gust from the right side caused the right wing to lift approximately 50 to 60 degrees, forcing the aircraft to veer left of the runway centerline. Although the pilot applied rudder and aileron to level the wings, the aircraft descended back onto the runway at an indicated airspeed of 70 knots. The aircraft then exited the paved surface and entered an area of loose soil, thick vegetation, and uneven terrain containing holes and stones. As the aircraft struggled to remain stable, the right main landing gear struck an anthill, causing the gear to separate from the airframe. The pilot executed a sharp right rudder input to avoid a pole and a hangar, eventually coming to a stop with the right wing touching the ground. There were no injuries to the occupant.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the environmental conditions and the sequence of control inputs during the departure. Investigators noted that the meteorological conditions at the time involved a strong wind of 20 to 25 knots from 030 degrees. The examination of the aircraft revealed damage to the nose landing gear, the right main gear, and the right wing, as well as the right aileron, right flap, and left wing. The investigation also reviewed the maintenance history, noting that the aircraft had flown 78.5 hours since its last Mandatory Periodical Inspection.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the decision to take off in strong wind conditions, which led to the aircraft becoming airborne prematurely.
- A sudden wind gust from the right disrupted the aircraft's lateral control, causing it to veer off the runway.
- The transition from the runway to uneven, unpaved terrain made the aircraft increasingly difficult to control.
- The loss of the right main landing gear was directly caused by an impact with an anthill while the aircraft was traversing the unpaved area.