History of the Flight
On 4 June 2017, a Malaysian-registered Piper PA-28-161, registration 9M-DRC, departed from Senai International Airport for a training area west of Gunung Pulai. The aircraft carried a pilot and two passengers. Approximately six minutes into the flight, the pilot noticed the engine losing power. He turned back and transmitted a MAYDAY call, indicating his intention to land in an open area as he judged it was not possible to return to Senai.
The pilot successfully landed the aircraft on an unopened, newly built highway flyover. During the touchdown, the left wingtip struck a lamp post, causing the aircraft to spin twice before coming to rest at the edge of the flyover.
Injuries and Damage
All three occupants exited the aircraft without assistance and reported no injuries. The aircraft sustained substantial damage: the left wingtip was heavily damaged, all three landing gear collapsed, and the propeller blades were bent backwards, indicating a power-off impact. The cabin remained intact. The aircraft was subsequently declared a total write-off. Other damage included scuff marks on the flyover asphalt and destruction of a temporary barbed wire fence placed across the flyover.
Investigation
The direct cause of the emergency landing was a gradual loss of engine power. However, the reasons for the power loss could not be positively established. Examination of the engine revealed no blockages or leaks in the fuel system or air intakes, and fuel and oil samples showed no signs of contamination. No post-impact fire occurred. The investigation found that all organisational and management aspects of the operator were in order.