What happened
On 11 November 2013, a private PA-28-180 departed from Brits Aerodrome, bound for Aviators Paradise. The flight, carrying the pilot and two passengers, joined the airfield overhead at 5,300 feet. After observing the surface wind and traffic, the pilot elected to land on Runway 03.
During the final approach, the aircraft encountered a sudden gust of wind. To maintain clearance from tall vegetation along the approach path and to prevent landing short, the pilot significantly increased engine power. This resulted in the aircraft touching down with excessive speed. Upon touchdown, the pilot attempted to use the brakes and retracted the flaps, but the aircraft could not be stopped within the remaining runway length. Realizing a collision with obstacles at the runway end was imminent, the pilot steered the aircraft off the asphalt onto the grass. The aircraft traveled approximately 20 meters before the nose wheel and propeller struck a sand bank, and the right wing made contact with a tree.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the aircraft, the site, and the pilot's flight history. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft, registration ZS-FZI, was well-maintained, with all regulatory inspections up to date and no evidence of mechanical or system failure. The pilot was found to be properly licensed and medically fit, with significant familiarity regarding the airfield layout. Meteorological data confirmed that the surface wind was gusting at 25 knots during the period of the accident.
Findings
- The pilot experienced a sudden wind gust during the short final approach.
- The increase in power to clear obstacles contributed to an unstable approach.
- The aircraft touched down at a speed higher than required for the runway conditions.
- The pilot's decision to continue the landing rather than initiating an immediate go-around led to the runway excursion.