What happened
On 06 November 2007, a Cessna 206, registration ZS-PFS, was conducting a ferry flight from Hoedspruit Civil Aerodrome to Nelspruit Aerodrome. While flying abeam the Acorn Hoek area, the pilot experienced engine roughness which progressed into a complete engine failure. After attempting to restart the engine without success, the pilot notified Hoedspruit approach of the intention to perform a forced landing. The pilot successfully maneuvered the aircraft into an open field, where the landing was completed without zero fatalities or injuries to the pilot. The aircraft incurred minor damage, specifically a flat oleo strut, but was subsequently recovered to Nelspruit.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the engine and its components following the incident. An aircraft maintenance organisation at Nelspruit performed a visual inspection of the engine and found no evidence of fuel leaks or mechanical defects. Subsequent ground-run tests were conducted with the engine still attached to the airframe. During these tests, the engine started promptly and operated smoothly. The maintenance team performed a full-power run at 2,650 RPM and conducted magneto tests at 1,700 RPM, noting that the RPM drop was within normal parameters. No mechanical irregularities were identified during these procedures.
Findings
- The engine failure occurred during a ferry operation.
- The pilot successfully executed a forced landing in an open field.
- Post-incident testing of the engine showed no conclusive evidence of mechanical failure, fuel starvation, ignition issues, or improper mixture.
- The engine functioned normally during ground-run testing at the maintenance facility.