Casualties unknown

Cessna T188 Forced Landing after Engine Failure near Middelburg (ZS-LHS)

Farm Koopermyn, near Middelburg, ZA

On December 13, 2005, a Cessna T188 (registration ZS-LHS) was involved in an aviation accident near Farm Koopermyn, near Middelburg, ZA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot performed a forced landing as a result of engine failure. The cause of the engine failure could not be determined. 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 2026-09-13Data APIEditorial standards

On 13 December 2005, a Cessna T188 (ZS-LHS) performing an agricultural flight experienced engine failure after crop-spraying a potato field. The pilot executed a forced landing in a grass field; the aircraft sustained damage to the right-hand main landing gear and wing tip. No injuries.

Introduction

On 13 December 2005 at 0800Z, a Cessna T188 (registration ZS-LHS) was involved in an incident on Farm Koopermyn, near Middelburg. The aircraft was conducting an agricultural flight, specifically crop-spraying operations. The pilot, who held a Commercial Pilot Licence with 552.8 total flying hours and 51.5 hours on type, was the sole occupant. Weather conditions were reported as wind northerly at 10–15 knots and temperature 12°C.

Sequence of Events

The pilot had just finished crop-spraying a potato field. Upon exiting the field, the engine failed. In response, the pilot dumped the hopper and executed a forced landing in a grass field. The pilot was not injured.

Damage

The aircraft sustained damage to the right-hand main landing gear and the right-hand wing tip.

Probable Cause

The pilot performed a forced landing as a result of engine failure. The cause of the engine failure could not be determined.