History of Flight
On 11 November 2019, at approximately 0500Z, a flight instructor and a student pilot aboard a Piper PA-28-140, registration ZS-EXI, departed from Springs Aerodrome (FASI) for a training flight. The purpose was to conduct circuits with emergency exercises.
During the third circuit, the instructor set the engine to idle while on base leg. On the glide approach, turning from base leg to final, the student pilot increased the left bank angle to align with the runway centerline, resulting in a left-wing low attitude. At about 300 feet above ground level, the student pilot froze on the control column and lost control of the aircraft, making it difficult for the instructor to take over.
When the instructor finally regained control and applied full power for a go-around, the engine did not produce sufficient power. The aircraft subsequently impacted a lamp post on Olympia Road in the residential area of Dal Fouche, Springs, and came to rest approximately 325 meters from the threshold of Runway 03.
Injuries to Persons
Both occupants sustained injuries: the instructor sustained minor injuries, and the student pilot sustained serious injuries. They were treated at the scene by paramedics and transported to a nearby hospital.
Damage to Aircraft
The aircraft was substantially damaged. It also damaged two lamp poles and an electric earthing wire.
Probable Cause
The student pilot froze on the controls while on glide approach, turning from base leg to final, causing the aircraft to lose altitude before the instructor could gain control. After recovery, the instructor initiated a go-around, but due to the aircraft's altitude and configuration, the engine could not produce enough power for a successful go-around. A contributing factor was incorrect aircraft configuration and handling, and poor technique during the glide approach.