What happened
On the afternoon of 4 February 2025, a flight instructor and a student pilot were conducting a scheduled navigational training flight departing from Wonderboom Aerodrome (FAWB). The flight was intended to visit Brits Aerodrome and Pilanesberg Aerodrome before returning to the departure point. After a routine takeoff from Runway 29, the aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 500 feet AGL when the engine suddenly experienced a significant power loss, with RPM dropping from 2700 to idle.
While the flight instructor attempted to troubleshoot the engine performance, the power briefly returned before failing again. Unable to maintain flight, the instructor performed a forced landing in a heavily vegetated area near Onderstepoort, Pretoria. Although the Piper PA28-180, registration ZS-MKY, sustained substantial damage to its propeller and left wing, there were no injuries to the crew.
The investigation
An investigation by the SACAA AIID focused on the mechanical state of the aircraft and the environmental conditions at the time of the incident. Technical inspections of the engine, fuel system, ignition, and control linkages were conducted. The examination revealed no mechanical defects, system failures, or operational anomalies that could account for the sudden loss of power. The aircraft was found to be airworthy, with all maintenance records and inspections up to date.
Meteorological data indicated stable, fine weather with a temperature of 32°C. Investigators ruled out carburetor icing as a factor, noting that the high ambient temperature and the use of takeoff power made ice formation highly unlikely. Additionally, the investigation confirmed that the aircraft was operating within its performance parameters and that the aerodrome and density altitude played no role in the event.
Findings
- The flight crew was properly licensed, qualified, and medically fit for the operation.
- The aircraft was fully compliant with all maintenance requirements and was airworthy at the time of departure.
- The engine lost power during the climb phase for undetermined reasons, necessitating the emergency landing.
- The engine, fuel, and ignition systems were found to be fully functional during post-accident testing.