What happened
On 13 December 2013, a Cessna 172C, registration ZS-CUB, was returning to Mafikeng Aerodrome (FAMM) following a solo training flight in the general flying area. After receiving landing clearance for Runway 04, the pilot attempted to land with 10 degrees of flaps configured. Upon touchdown, the aircraft bounced, and the pilot encountered difficulty maintaining directional control due to an excessive touchdown speed.
Observing that the remaining runway length was insufficient, the pilot decided to execute a go-around. While the pilot successfully increased power and rotated the aircraft, they failed to transition into a proper climb attitude while keeping the wings level. Consequently, the aircraft rolled to the left and struck a tree adjacent to the runway. The impact caused the left fuel tank to rupture, triggering a fire in the engine compartment. Aerodrome rescue services arrived promptly to extinguish the flames and evacuate the pilot, who sustained no injuries.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the sequence of events, the aircraft's maintenance history, and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft was maintained according to regulations and that the pilot was appropriately licensed for the solo training operation. Meteorological data indicated that weather conditions were clear and within safe limits, with no significant wind contributing to the loss of control.
Findings
- The pilot failed to effectively recover from a bounced landing, leading to a struggle with directional control on the runway.
- During the subsequent go-around attempt, the pilot failed to maintain a level wing position during the transition to a climb.
- The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the nose, propeller, tailplane, and wings due to the impact and subsequent fire.