What happened
On the afternoon of 23 July 2023, a student pilot was conducting solo flight training exercises at Lanseria International Airport (FALA) in Gauteng. Operating a Piper PA28-161 Warrior III, registration ZS-PPB, the pilot was performing a series of circuit-and-landing maneuvers. After completing several touch-and-go landings with an instructor on board, the student continued the session solo.
During the fifth touch-and-go attempt, the aircraft touched down on Runway 07. As the pilot began the takeoff roll, they applied power before retracting the flaps to the up position. This sequence caused the aircraft to lose directional control, veering left off the runway and onto the grass. The pilot managed to bring the aircraft to a stop using the brakes just meters from the runway edge. There were no injuries and no damage to the aircraft.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the flight sequence and the aircraft's maintenance history. The investigation confirmed that the student pilot was performing a flapless (0°) takeoff procedure. While the weather was clear and the wind was manageable, the investigation focused on the pilot's adherence to established training protocols.
Records indicated that the aircraft had a history of previous runway excursions and mechanical issues, including recent rudder cable tension adjustments. However, the investigation specifically scrutinized the operational sequence used during the transition from landing to takeoff.