What happened
On 22 August 2010, a Piper PA28-161, registration ZS-PPB, was conducting a private flight from Ladysmith Aerodrome toward Rand Aerodrome. While passing over Treverton College airfield, the pilot decided to perform a low-level runway inspection to assess the field for future use. During this process, the pilot noted livestock on the runway and initiated a go-around.
As the aircraft attempted a left-hand turn at approximately 100 ft AGL, the airspeed dropped abruptly, triggering the stall warning. The passenger, a highly experienced commercial pilot and instructor, immediately took control of the aircraft. To recover airspeed, the passenger lowered the nose, applied maximum power, and set the fuel mixture to full rich. Despite maneuvering the aircraft away from nearby trees and power lines, the aircraft struck a thatched roof at the airfield entrance before coming to rest on the ground.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the flight sequence and environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft was well within its maximum takeoff weight and that all necessary maintenance inspections were up to date. The investigation also noted that the passenger was a qualified commercial pilot with an instructor rating, which allowed for an immediate emergency response when the airspeed decayed.
Findings
- The pilot held a valid private pilot license and medical certificate.
- The passenger was a qualified commercial pilot with an Instructor Grade 3 rating.
- The aircraft was maintained by an approved organization and was in a serviceable condition.
- Strong, gusty wind conditions caused a sudden loss of airspeed and lift during the climb-out phase.
- The collision with the thatched structure was the direct result of the aerodynamic instability caused by the wind.