Piper PA-28-180 Runway Excursion at Aviators Paradise (ZS-FZI)

Flight Details and Accident Sequence On 11 November 2013, a Piper Aircraft Corporation PA-28-180, registration ZS-FZI, departed Brits Aerodrome (FABS) for Aviators Paradise (FAAP) on a private flight. The pilot, a 37-year-old male holding a valid private licence, was accompanied by two passengers. The aircraft joined the circuit overhead FAAP at 5,300 ft and the pilot elected to land on Runway 03. During the final approach, the pilot increased engine power to manage the rate of descent and avoid tall vegetation. Following touchdown, the pilot applied brakes and retracted the flaps, but the aircraft remained too fast for the remaining runway length. Unable to execute a safe go-around, the pilot veered the aircraft off the runway onto the grass. The aircraft travelled approximately 20 meters before the nose wheel and propeller impacted a sand bank and the right wing tip struck a tree. The occupants evacuated the aircraft unassisted without sustaining injuries. ## Aircraft and Environmental Conditions The accident occurred at 0730Z at FAAP, located at GPS coordinates S 25° 41’ 38” E 027° 46’ 57”. The aircraft was powered by a Lycoming O-360-A3A engine and was within its maximum take-off weight of 2,200 lbs. at 1,895 lbs. Meteorological conditions at the time included a wind from 360° at 25 kt, a temperature of 26°C, and clear visibility. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to its nose wheel, propeller, and right wing. A post-accident inspection by an aircraft maintenance organisation found no mechanical or system failures. ## Investigation Findings The investigation identified poor technique as the probable cause of the accident, with an unstable approach due to gusty surface wind conditions as a contributory factor. The pilot was familiar with the aerodrome and the short field landing technique required for the runway. The report noted that the approach speed was higher than required and that the pilot should have initiated a go-around immediately once the touchdown point was no longer possible.