What happened
On 16 December 2023, a Piper PA-28-161, registration ZS-TDJ, was conducting a solo navigational training flight originating from George Airport. The flight plan included several stops, including Plettenberg Bay Airfield (FAPG), for a series of touch-and-go landings.
As the student pilot approached FAPG, the airspace was active with other traffic. A pilot operating a ZU-IJR aircraft had previously announced intentions to land on the grass area adjacent to Runway 30. While the ZU-IJR pilot was completing the ground roll of this landing, the ZS-TDJ aircraft approached the airfield for a touch-and-go maneuver. The student pilot failed to broadcast his final approach, and the aircraft was observed following closely behind the ZU-IJR without prior radio communication. This resulted in a near-miss situation on the airfield.
The investigation
The South African Civil Aviation Authority Accident and Incident Investigations Division (SACAA AIID) conducted an investigation into the serious incident. The inquiry examined the flight histories of all involved aircraft, including a Cessna ZS-FFB that was also present at the aerodrome.
Investigators reviewed the radio communications on frequency 124.8 MHz, noting that while the ZU-IJR pilot had communicated his position and landing intentions, the student pilot's subsequent radio transmissions were absent during the critical approach phase. The investigation also verified the airworthiness of the aircraft and the validity of the student pilot's license and medical certification. No injuries or aircraft damage were reported during the occurrence.
Findings
- The student pilot was performing a solo training flight under Part 141 regulations.
- The ZU-IJR pilot had landed on the grass area alongside Runway 30 as previously announced.
- The student pilot did not broadcast his final approach for Runway 30, leading to the close proximity with the aircraft still on the ground.
- The student pilot's next radio transmission occurred only after departing the vicinity of Plettenberg Bay, heading toward Willowmore Airfield.