Incident Overview
On 27 April 2006 at 1245Z, a Cessna 140 (registration ZS-MZK) operating under a private flight type was conducting a takeoff from Runway 34 at Rustenburg Aerodrome (FARG). The aircraft had one pilot and one passenger on board.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot's statement, the takeoff was aborted after the airspeed indicator failed to provide a reading. The pilot retarded the throttle and maintained directional control until the tail wheel made contact with the runway. Subsequently, directional control was lost. The aircraft departed the runway and entered soft ground with long grass, causing it to nose over.
Injuries and Damage
The incident resulted in one injury (no fatalities). The aircraft sustained damage to the propeller, starboard wing, vertical stabiliser, and bottom cowling.
Weather Conditions
Meteorological conditions were CAVOK with wind from 340° at 8 knots, temperature 23°C, and no clouds.
Probable Cause
The probable cause was loss of directional control due to the pilot's attempt to engage brakes while the aircraft was at a fairly high speed.