Incident Overview
On 10 May 2010 at approximately 1425Z, a Piper PA28-181 aircraft, registration ZS-KHW, operated by Air Safety Pilot Academy CC, was involved in an incident near Potchefstroom in the North-West Province of South Africa (coordinates S26° 37,562” E027° 02,881”). The flight was a private daytime cross-country from Potchefstroom to Mafikeng. Fine weather conditions were reported by the pilot.
Sequence of Events
The pilot was en route when the engine failed. After transmitting a Mayday call, he executed a forced landing on an open stretch of grass field. The pilot was not injured. However, the aircraft sustained damage to the nose gear and propeller.
Aircraft Damage
The damage was limited to the nose gear and propeller, which were affected during the forced landing. There was no evidence of fire.
Injuries
There were no injuries or fatalities. The pilot, the sole person on board, was unharmed.
Probable Cause
The probable cause of the incident was an unsuccessful forced landing following an engine failure.