What happened
On 30 October 2021, a Cessna 182P, registered ZS-PMT, was conducting a private flight from Lanseria International Airport toward Rand Airport. During the flight, the pilot attempted a landing at Blue Mountain Valley private airstrip but aborted the approach due to wet runway conditions. While en route to Rand Airport at altitudes between 6,500 and 7,000 feet, the pilot experienced a sudden loss of engine power and a drop in manifold air pressure.
As the aircraft lost airspeed and altitude, the pilot determined that reaching the intended runway was impossible and initiated a forced landing in an open field approximately 1.2 nautical miles west of Rand Airport. The aircraft struck tree branches before coming to a rest near a riverbank, where a post-impact fire erupted. The pilot and passenger both sustained injuries, including burns, and were able to evacuate the wreckage.
The investigation
An investigation by the SACAA AIID focused on the mechanical failure of the engine's control system. Post-accident examinations of the engine revealed that the throttle cable had separated from the throttle lever control within the carburettor. Investigators found that a castellated nut and bolt, which are essential for securing the throttle control lever and throttle, were missing.
Further analysis of the throttle cable eye end showed a significant buildup of foreign matter, including metallic residue and burnt oil or fuel. While maintenance records indicated that a dual inspection had been completed and stamped as satisfactory during a recent mandatory periodic inspection, the physical evidence suggested the assembly was not properly secured.