What happened
On 26 February 2000, a KR2 aircraft, registration ZS-WDW, was conducting a training flight departing from and intending to return to Swartkops Airforce Base. The weather conditions at the time of the occurrence were clear and fine.
Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 150 feet AGL while maintaining a climb speed of 80 mph. During this phase of flight, the aircraft experienced a sudden and severe loss of power, with only about 20% of the engine's rated power remaining available. In response to the power loss, the pilot executed a forced landing along the extended centerline of runway 02. The impact during the landing resulted in extensive damage to the aircraft.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft's recent maintenance history and found that while the aircraft had been declared serviceable following its most recent annual inspection, a recent issue had been noted. Following a ferry flight from Krugersdorp to Swartkops, a malfunction regarding the turbocharger was reported. Consequently, the turbocharger had been removed, inspected, serviced, and reinstalled.
Prior to the flight in question, the owner had performed a full static engine run and 45 minutes of high-speed taxi tests. The pilot's pre-flight inspection had indicated that all systems were normal. The investigation also noted that the engine utilized an automotive carburetor, requiring the mixture control lever to be used as a choke control. Additionally, it was noted that the pilot was secured only by a lap strap, while the passenger seat was equipped with both a lap strap and a shoulder harness.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was a mechanical failure of the engine.
- The engine power loss was specifically attributed to a faulty turbocharger.