What happened
On 20 May 2019, a private flight departing from Brits Aerodrome (FABS) for Brakpan Aerodrome (FABB) resulted in a runway excursion. While accelerating on Runway 20, the pilot of the Czech Aircraft Works, SPOL SRO aircraft, registration ZU-LSC, attempted to rotate the plane upon reaching 65 knots. However, the aircraft failed to lift off. The pilot subsequently initiated an aborted takeoff and applied full braking, but the aircraft could not stop within the remaining runway distance. The aircraft overshot the runway and collided with the aerodrome's perimeter fence.
There were 0 injuries to the pilot and passenger. The aircraft sustained damage to its propeller blades, spinner, wings, and landing gear.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the weight and balance of the aircraft at the time of the incident. The investigation established that the aircraft's total weight was 1327.7lb, which was 7.7lb above the maximum certified takeoff weight of 1320lb. Additionally, the investigation found that the center of gravity was calculated at 21, which fell outside the permitted operating range of 16.54 to 20.67.
Technical inspections of the aircraft's flight control surfaces following the event revealed no mechanical anomalies or system failures. The investigation also noted that the pilot held a valid national pilot license and medical certificate, and the aircraft's documentation, including its Authority to Fly and annual inspection, were all up to date.
Findings
- The primary reason the aircraft failed to rotate at the intended speed was that the maximum takeoff weight was exceeded.
- The aircraft's center of gravity was outside of the approved operational limits.
- A contributing factor to the runway excursion was the pilot's late decision to abort the takeoff run.