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Jabiru J400 Experiences Engine Roughness During Training Flight, Lands Precautionarily (ZU-ZAN)

Kameeldrift at a position of S 25˚46’ E028˚04’, ZA

On June 13, 2003, a Jabiru J400 (registration ZU-ZAN) was involved in an aviation accident near Kameeldrift at a position of S 25˚46’ E028˚04’, ZA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The exhaust valve seat on number 2 cylinder became dislodged, which caused the engine to lose significant power. This summary draws on records from the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) Accident and Incident Investigations Division.

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

On 13 June 2003, a Jabiru J400 (ZU-ZAN) on a training flight near Kameeldrift suffered engine roughness after stall recovery, prompting a precautionary landing on a disused airfield. No injuries or damage. Cause: dislodged exhaust valve seat.

Incident Overview

On 13 June 2003 at 0800Z, a Jabiru J400, registration ZU-ZAN, departed from Grand Central Aerodrome (FAGC) on a training flight to the Pretoria GF1 area. The aircraft carried two persons on board: a pilot and a student pilot. Weather conditions were fine, with calm surface winds and a temperature of 20°C.

Flight Sequence

In the training area, a series of incipient spins were performed, followed by a stall. Immediately after the stall recovery was executed, the engine began running rough. In response, the pilot decided to carry out a precautionary landing on a disused airfield in the Kameeldrift area, located at coordinates S 25°46' E028°04'.

Outcome

Both occupants escaped unharmed, and the aircraft did not sustain any damage. The incident resulted in no injuries and no fatalities.

Investigation Findings

The probable cause was determined to be a dislodged exhaust valve seat on the number 2 cylinder, which caused the engine to lose significant power.

Engine failure

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Jun 2003 Jabiru J400 accident near Kameeldrift at a position of S 25˚46’ E028˚04’, ZA?

On 13 June 2003, a Jabiru J400 (ZU-ZAN) on a training flight near Kameeldrift suffered engine roughness after stall recovery, prompting a precautionary landing on a disused airfield. No injuries or damage. Cause: dislodged exhaust valve seat.

Were there any fatalities in the 13 Jun 2003 Jabiru J400 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Jun 2003 involved a Jabiru J400, registration ZU-ZAN, at Kameeldrift at a position of S 25˚46’ E028˚04’, ZA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The exhaust valve seat on number 2 cylinder became dislodged, which caused the engine to lose significant power.

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