What happened
On 31 January 2022, a student pilot was operating a Piper Archer PA 28 R, registration ZS-SYJ, on a solo navigation training flight. The mission originated from Port Alfred Airport (FAPA) with an intended route via Mazeppa Bay and a return to FAPA. The flight was being conducted under visual meteorological conditions as part of a Part 141 training program.
Approximately ninety minutes into the flight, the aircraft experienced a loss of electrical power. As the flight progressed, the pilot noted the progressive failure of radio communications and electrical instrument indications. While the pilot initially considered following standard lost communication procedures to return to the departure aerodrome, an unusual rattling noise from the engine prompted a change in plan. The pilot elected to perform a precautionary landing in a nearby grass field located roughly 44 nautical miles northeast of Port Alfred. During the landing roll on the unpaved surface, the aircraft's left wing leading edge struck a fence pole, resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft. The pilot escaped the incident without injury.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the circumstances surrounding the electrical failure and the subsequent impact. The investigation confirmed that the pilot held a valid Student Pilot Licence and a current Class II medical certificate. The aircraft's maintenance records showed that a mandatory periodic inspection had been completed only six hours prior to the accident.
Technical examination of the aircraft following the event identified the specific mechanical cause of the electrical loss. Post-flight inspections revealed that the alternator had failed because of a broken cooling fan, which directly caused the cockpit instrumentation to shut down during flight.