History of Flight
On 10 November 2018 at approximately 1015Z, a Yak 52 (registration ZU-FRN) departed Rand Aerodrome with a pilot and a passenger for a private flight under visual flight rules, intending to return to the same aerodrome. While flying at 7000 feet above mean sea level near the Heineken factory in Vereeniging, the engine lost power and went to idle. The pilot attempted an engine recovery procedure but was unsuccessful. He then selected an open field on a private farm for a forced landing.
Forced Landing and Damage
During the landing, the nose landing gear collapsed, causing the propeller to strike the ground and shatter its blades. The aircraft's nose section impacted the ground, and the aircraft skidded forward before coming to a stop. Both occupants disembarked unassisted and sustained no injuries. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the nose landing gear, propeller, and nose section.
Investigation Findings
The investigation found no evidence of an engine power loss or any other system failure. It determined that the aircraft landed on uneven terrain, which led to the nose gear collapsing and the propeller striking the ground. The manifold pressure indicator showed 660 mmHg post-incident, indicating the engine was under power at impact.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The aircraft was a Yakovlev Yak 52, serial number 811314, manufactured in 1981. It was powered by a Vedeneyev M14P engine and equipped with an MTV-9-B-C propeller. The pilot held a commercial pilot license with 2254.3 total flying hours and 199.7 hours on type. The weather at the time was fine with wind from 045° at 10 knots, visibility CAVOK, and temperature 18°C.
Conclusion
The incident was investigated by the South African Civil Aviation Authority's Incident and Incident Investigations Division. No injuries occurred, and the aircraft was substantially damaged.