History of Flight
On Wednesday, 22 February 2023, at approximately 0951Z, a pilot operating a Beechcraft Baron BE55, registration ZS-OKS, departed from Pearly Beach private airstrip in the Western Cape province. The intended destination was Oudtshoorn Aerodrome (FAOH). The flight was conducted under visual flight rules (VFR) in visual meteorological conditions (VMC) by day, in accordance with Part 91 of the South African Civil Aviation Regulations. Weather at the time was clear, with wind from 230° at 6 knots, temperature 23°C, dew point 11°C, visibility 10 km or more, and ceiling and visibility OK (CAVOK).
The aircraft took off from Runway 15. At approximately 1000 feet above mean sea level (AMSL), the pilot experienced a loss of power on both engines, followed by a stall warning. The pilot initiated a forced landing onto the R43 road, approximately 3.7 km from the threshold of Runway 15. The landing was hard, causing the nose gear to break off, and the aircraft skidded to the left side of the road. A post-impact fire erupted, and the pilot disembarked from the aircraft. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel extinguished the fire upon arrival.
Injuries to Persons
The pilot sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene before being transported to a hospital for medical assessment.
Damage to Aircraft
The aircraft sustained substantial damage due to impact forces and the post-impact fire.
Probable Cause
The investigation determined that the accident was caused by a loss of engine power due to incorrect setting of the fuel condition levers, which led to fuel starvation and the subsequent unsuccessful forced landing.