Fatal engine failure leads to crash of amateur-built aircraft in Polokwane

Casualties unknown • Approximately 200m from Polokwane Civil Aerodrome, ZA

A pilot lost their life following an engine failure and subsequent tree collision during a circuit exercise at Polokwane Civil Aerodrome.

What happened

On 26 May 2021, a pilot was conducting solo circuit exercises at Polokwane Civil Aerodrome (FAPI) in a Bushbaby Explorer, registration ZU-FXE. The flight was part of a proving flight under Part 94 regulations. During the fourth circuit, while on the downwind leg, the pilot notified air traffic control of an engine failure and declared an intention to perform a forced landing at the aerodrome.

As the aircraft attempted to maneuver toward the runway, it lost altitude rapidly and struck a tree roughly 200 meters from the aerodrome's perimeter fence. The impact caused the aircraft to spin 180 degrees before coming to a halt. A fire broke out immediately following the impact, fueled by onboard fuel. Although the pilot managed to exit the wreckage, they had sustained severe burns and passed away in the hospital the following day.

The investigation

SACAA AIID investigators examined the wreckage and the engine components. The aircraft, an amateur-built type, had previously been modified by the owner to replace a Rotax 912 ULS engine with a BMW GS1200 motorcycle engine, a modification that had been approved by the regulator.

Technical analysis of the recovered engine included a compression test, which showed no mechanical anomalies. The timing gears, chain, and crankshaft were all found to be in good working condition and properly lubricated. However, because the fire had heavily damaged the fuel and electrical systems, investigators were unable to test those specific components to identify the exact reason for the power loss.

Findings

  • The pilot held a valid National Pilot Licence and a current Class II medical certificate.
  • The weather conditions at the time of the accident were clear and did not contribute to the event.
  • There was sufficient fuel remaining on board for the flight.
  • The exact cause of the engine stoppage remains undetermined due to the extent of the fire damage to the fuel and electrical systems.
  • The engine used was a motorcycle engine designed for different specifications than standard aviation engines.

Probable cause

An unidentified engine failure during flight led to an unsuccessful forced landing attempt, resulting in a collision with a tree and a subsequent fatal post-impact fire.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2021-05-26 Bushbaby Explorer accident near Approximately 200m from Polokwane Civil Aerodrome, ZA?

A pilot lost their life following an engine failure and subsequent tree collision during a circuit exercise at Polokwane Civil Aerodrome.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2021-05-26 involved a Bushbaby Explorer, registration ZU-FXE, at Approximately 200m from Polokwane Civil Aerodrome, ZA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An unidentified engine failure during flight led to an unsuccessful forced landing attempt, resulting in a collision with a tree and a subsequent fatal post-impact fire.

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