What happened
On August 7, 2007, a student pilot was conducting his first solo navigation flight in a PA28-180, registration ZS-KIN. Earlier that morning, the pilot had completed a dual instruction session involving various maneuvers such as stalls and forced landings. Following this session, the pilot departed Wonderboom Aerodrome for a flight path including Warmbaths and Nylstroom, eventually landing at Pilanesberg Aerodrome.
Upon arrival at Pilanesberg, the pilot consulted air traffic control at both Lanseria and Wonderboom regarding weather conditions. Despite reports of increasing wind, the pilot was advised that conditions were acceptable and proceeded to return to Wonderboom Aerodrome. While cleared to land on Runway 24, the pilot encountered strengthening winds. During the final approach, the aircraft began drifting toward the right edge of the runway. Although the pilot attempted to correct the drift with left rudder, the aircraft's momentum carried it across the runway surface. As the aircraft moved toward the left edge, it tilted, causing the right wingtip to strike the ground. The nose wheel subsequently collapsed, leading to propeller contact with the runway. There were 0 fatalities and 0 injuries.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the flight sequence and the meteorological conditions present at the time of the accident. The investigation established that while the initial weather forecast predicted winds of 12 to 14 knots, the actual surface conditions at the time of landing involved a south-southwest wind of 20 knots, gusting up to 25 knots. The investigators also reviewed the pilot's recent training and the aircraft's maintenance history, noting that the most recent periodic inspection had been completed shortly before the event.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the pilot's loss of directional control during the landing phase.
- The pilot lacked sufficient experience to effectively compensate for the strong crosswind component.
- The flight instructor played a role by certifying the student for solo flight despite the presence of gusty conditions.
- Potential fatigue resulting from the intensive morning training exercises may have contributed to the pilot's performance.