What happened
On 09 June 2016, a Cessna 172M, registration ZS-NTA, was conducting a training flight at the East Rand general flying area. After departing from Springs aerodrome (FASI), the aircraft returned to the airfield approximately 14 minutes later. During the approach to runway 32, the aircraft maintained an indicated airspeed of 75 knots with flaps set to 20 degrees.
The aircraft touched down deep on the runway at an excessive speed. Upon contact with the surface, the aircraft bounced, and the student pilot was unable to reduce ground speed through back pressure or braking. As the aircraft began to overrun the runway, the instructor took control and applied full left rudder to avoid the end of the runway, but the aircraft subsequently collided with a compound wall. Both occupants sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the flight parameters and the actions of the crew during the landing phase. The investigation established that the aircraft was operating under Part 141 regulations. Investigators analyzed the approach speed and the sequence of events following the touchdown, specifically focusing on the loss of directional control and the impact with the wall.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was an unstable, high-speed approach that resulted in the aircraft landing too far down the runway.
- The touchdown caused the aircraft to bounce, leading to a loss of directional control.
- A contributing factor was the instructor's failure to intervene in a timely manner to stabilize the approach or prevent the excursion.