What happened
On the afternoon of 23 November 2023, a Piper PA-28-180 Cherokee, registration ZS-CZR, was conducting a routine training flight from Vereeniging Airfield (FAVV) in Gauteng. The flight, operated by Unitas Flying School, carried an instructor pilot and a student pilot with the intention of returning to the airfield after completing flight circuits.
While the aircraft was on its second circuit, specifically during the final approach at approximately 300 feet above ground level, the engine lost power. This sudden loss of thrust caused the aircraft to descend rapidly. The instructor pilot managed to execute a forced landing in an open area at a brick manufacturing plant, located roughly 1.38 nautical miles from the threshold of Runway 03. During the impact, the aircraft's nose gear strut failed, causing the plane to flip and come to rest in an inverted position. Despite the substantial damage to the airframe, there were no injuries to the two occupants.
The investigation
An investigation by the SACAA AIID examined the circumstances surrounding the power loss and the subsequent impact. Investigators confirmed that a pre-flight inspection had been completed prior to departure with no anomalies noted. The investigation also reviewed the airworthiness of the aircraft, noting that the Piper PA-22-180 Cherokee had a valid Certificate of Airworthiness and had undergone a mandatory periodic inspection in October 2023. The investigation further established that the flight was being conducted under Part 141 training regulations and that both pilots held valid commercial licenses and medical certificates.