What happened
On 5 October 1999, a DH 82 A, registered as ZS-DHR, was conducting a private flight departing from AFB Swartkops. During the flight, the aircraft experienced a sudden engine failure. In response to the loss of power, the pilot performed a forced landing on an abandoned, rocky road located northwest of Speskop. While the landing prevented any fatalities or injuries to the two occupants, the impact with the terrain caused significant damage to both of the aircraft's lower wings.
Following the incident, the aircraft was recovered by road and transported back to AFS Base Swartkops.
The investigation
Investigators examined the mechanical state of the aircraft and its fuel systems following the accident. An Approved Maintenance Organisation (AMO) conducted a thorough inspection of the fuel system; however, this inspection yielded no identifiable defects. To ensure airworthiness, the maintenance team performed an engine ground run and a subsequent test flight. Following these successful procedures, the aircraft was cleared to fly and was operated to Rand Airport without further incident.
Findings
- The primary cause of the engine failure could not be determined through the investigation of the fuel system or post-accident maintenance checks.