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Casualties unknown

2000-01-30: Cessna 172 M (ZS-JCL) — Boekenhoutskloof, PTA West, ZA

Boekenhoutskloof, PTA West, ZA

On January 30, 2000, a Cessna 172 M (registration ZS-JCL) was involved in an aviation accident near Boekenhoutskloof, PTA West, ZA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: While a definitive cause was not established, the investigation identified three potential contributing factors: possible carburettor icing leading to power loss, a misjudgment of airspeed and altitude, and the hazards of low-level flight. This summary draws on records from the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) Accident and Incident Investigations Division.

Sourcesthe South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) Accident and Incident Investigations DivisionPrimary reportUpdated 1785104676Data APIEditorial standards

A private flight involving a Cessna 172 M ended in a fatal collision with trees and a subsequent post-impact fire near Boekenhoutskloof.

What happened

On 30 January 2000, a Cessna 172 M, registered ZS-JCL, departed Grand Central aerodrome for a private flight toward the general flying area north of Pretoria. The aircraft was carrying two occupants, including the pilot. During the flight, the pilot communicated his position and intentions on the 125.8 MHz frequency, indicating a plan to practice incipient spins in the area.

Around 15:00 Z, witnesses observed the aircraft flying at an extremely low altitude of roughly 100 ft AGL, noting a lack of engine noise. The aircraft performed a turn toward the north, clipping the top of a tall tree at approximately 45 ft AGL. Following this impact, the engine reportedly restarted, and the aircraft continued a low-level flight at about 15 ft AGL. The aircraft then entered a left-hand turn, striking blue gum trees at 30 ft AGL. After further maneuvering, the aircraft struck another group of trees at 45 ft AGL, breaking several large branches, before hitting the ground approximately 60 meters away. The impact caused the aircraft to burst into flames, resulting in two fatalities.

Probable cause

While a definitive cause was not established, the investigation identified three potential contributing factors: possible carburettor icing leading to power loss, a misjudgment of airspeed and altitude, and the hazards of low-level flight.

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