Accident Overview
On 5 October 1999 at 1400Z, a DH 82 A aircraft registered ZS-DHR, operated privately by owner D Roets, experienced an engine failure. The pilot carried out a forced landing on an abandoned rocky road near Speskop, north-west of Valhalla. The landing resulted in damage to both bottom wings. No occupants were injured. The aircraft was subsequently transported by road back to AFB Swartkops.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The aircraft type was DH 82 A, owned by D Roets and operated privately. The pilot held an Airline Transport Pilot Licence, was 46 years old, and had a valid medical certificate. The pilot's total flying experience was 11,550 hours, with 50 hours on type. The last point of departure and intended landing was AFB Swartkops.
Meteorological Conditions
Weather at the time was reported as fine with a northerly wind.
Investigation Findings
According to the Approved Maintenance Organization (AMO) that repaired the aircraft, the fuel system was inspected following the accident and no fault could be found. An engine ground run was conducted, followed by a test flight. The aircraft was then flown to Rand Airport without any further problems. The probable cause of the engine failure could not be determined.