What happened
On the morning of 7 December 2021, a Cessna 177 Cardinal, registration ZS-EZM, departed Grand Central Airport (FAGC) for a private flight intended to visit the Johannesburg South General Flying Area before returning to its origin. The flight was conducted under Part 91 regulations in clear visual meteorological conditions.
While cruising at 7,000 feet over the Lawley residential area, the pilot reported that the engine began running roughly before eventually failing. Upon attempting troubleshooting procedures, the pilot observed that the fuel gauges, fuel flow, and fuel pressure indicators all read zero. Concluding that the engine had ceased operation due to fuel exhaustion, the pilot attempted to glide the aircraft toward Baragwanath Aerodrome (FASY).
During the descent, the aircraft lost altitude more rapidly than anticipated, causing it to undershoot Runway 31 by approximately 300 metres. The aircraft struck hard, rugged terrain, which resulted in substantial damage to the airframe. Despite the impact, the pilot and passenger escaped without injury.
The investigation
Investigators from the SACAA AIID examined the wreckage and the flight history of the aircraft. Post-accident inspections revealed that both fuel tanks were empty at the time of the landing. Notably, fuel residue was discovered underneath the left fuel tank and along the cabin roof, though no significant fuel odor was present at the crash site. An aircraft maintenance engineer noted that only a minimal amount of fuel—approximately 150 ml—could be drained from the tanks during recovery.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was an engine stoppage caused by fuel exhaustion.
- A contributing factor was inadequate in-flight fuel management.
- Potential factors for the unexpected fuel depletion included unconsidered higher fuel consumption rates due to wind conditions, variations in flying techniques, or insufficient leaning of the fuel mixture during cruise.