What happened
On 30 December 2013, a private Piper PA-28RT-201 departed from Zebula Lodge Aerodrome for a local sightseeing flight. The flight, which included the pilot and one passenger, lasted approximately 40 minutes before the crew returned to the aerodrome.
Upon returning, the pilot performed a standard procedure for unmanned aerodromes by flying over the runway twice to inspect the surface for potential hazards, specifically looking for wildlife. Given that the aerodrome is unfenced and located on property with significant animal populations, this check is a critical safety step. The pilot elected to land on runway 2/6 due to a westerly wind. However, during the landing roll, a kudu attempted to cross the runway and was struck by the right wing of the aircraft. The impact killed the animal and caused structural damage to the leading edge of the aircraft's right wing. There were no injuries to the occupants.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the circumstances surrounding the collision at the unlicensed aerodrome. The investigation confirmed that the pilot held a valid private pilot's licence with the appropriate type endorsement. The aircraft, registration ZS-MEA, was found to be airworthy and in a serviceable condition at the time of the incident.
Investigators noted that while the pilot had actively attempted to clear the runway of animals via aerial inspection, the nature of the aerodrome's environment makes such inspections imperfect. Because the facility is unfenced, animals can enter the runway area at any moment, even after a successful visual sweep.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the collision with a kudu that entered the aircraft's path during the landing roll.
- The aerodrome is an unlicensed facility where substantial numbers of wild animals roam freely.
- The lack of fencing at the aerodrome allows wildlife to access the runway at any time, presenting a continuous risk to landing aircraft.