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Cessna 172 Forced Landing After Engine Power Loss (ZS-OMN)

Approximately 5 NM from FAGC, ZA

On February 23, 2002, a Cessna 172 (registration ZS-OMN) was involved in an aviation accident near Approximately 5 NM from FAGC, ZA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The reason for the engine power loss was attributed to an exhaust valve that got stuck in the open position. This summary draws on records from the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) Accident and Incident Investigations Division; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) Accident and Incident Investigations DivisionPrimary reportUpdated 2026-10-18Data APIEditorial standards

On 23 February 2002, a Cessna 172 (ZS-OMN) on a training flight near Grand Central Aerodrome experienced engine power loss due to a stuck exhaust valve, resulting in a successful forced landing with no injuries or damage.

Incident Overview

On 23 February 2002 at 1220Z, a Cessna 172 aircraft, registration ZS-OMN, was conducting a training flight with two persons on board. The flight originated from and was to return to Grand Central Aerodrome (FAGC). While approximately 5 NM from FAGC at an elevation of 4780 feet and coordinates S 25° 51’25.1” & E028° 04’53.4”, the engine began losing power. The pilot executed a successful forced landing. Both occupants escaped unharmed, and the aircraft was not damaged. Fine weather conditions prevailed at the time of the incident.

Investigation Findings

Investigation revealed that the No. 1 exhaust valve had stuck in the open position. No other anomalies were found; the pilot was correctly licensed, the aircraft was properly maintained, and the operator held a valid Air Operator Certificate.

Probable Cause

The reason for the engine power loss was attributed to an exhaust valve that got stuck in the open position.

Maintenance error

Related events

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 23 Feb 2002 Cessna 172 accident near Approximately 5 NM from FAGC, ZA?

On 23 February 2002, a Cessna 172 (ZS-OMN) on a training flight near Grand Central Aerodrome experienced engine power loss due to a stuck exhaust valve, resulting in a successful forced landing with no injuries or damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 23 Feb 2002 Cessna 172 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 23 Feb 2002 involved a Cessna 172, registration ZS-OMN, at Approximately 5 NM from FAGC, ZA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The reason for the engine power loss was attributed to an exhaust valve that got stuck in the open position.

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