Engine Power Loss During Takeoff at Witbank Aerodrome

Casualties unknown • On the farm Welgevonden in the Steelpoort district, ZA

A Cessna 182RG experienced a sudden reduction in engine RPM shortly after takeoff from Witbank, forcing an emergency return to the runway.

What happened

On 30 July 2000, a Cessna 182RG, registered ZS-LDD, departed from Witbank Aerodrome on a private flight bound for Secunda. The aircraft was carrying a pilot and three passengers. Shortly after takeoff, while the aircraft was at an altitude of approximately 700 feet, the engine RPM dropped abruptly from 2,400 to roughly 1,500. Unable to sustain its climb, the pilot performed a 180-degree turn to return to the airfield. The aircraft touched down on Runway 22 with its landing gear still retracted. All four occupants exited the aircraft without injury.

The investigation

Investigators examined the aircraft's engine and propeller systems to identify the source of the power loss. The inquiry focused on the Constant Speed Unit (CSU) and its associated control mechanisms. The investigation found no evidence of a defect within the CSU control cable assembly that would account for a sudden decrease in propeller pitch RPM. The specific reason for the sudden decay in engine RPM remained undetermined.

Findings

  • The primary factor in the landing configuration was that the pilot's attention was diverted by the engine emergency, leading to a failure to extend the landing gear before touchdown.
  • A sudden reduction in propeller RPM occurred during the initial climb phase.
  • No mechanical faults were identified in the CSU control cable assembly.

Probable cause

The pilot failed to lower the landing gear prior to touchdown due to distraction while managing an engine power emergency; the underlying cause of the sudden RPM decay could not be established.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-07-30 Cessna 182RG accident near On the farm Welgevonden in the Steelpoort district, ZA?

A Cessna 182RG experienced a sudden reduction in engine RPM shortly after takeoff from Witbank, forcing an emergency return to the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-07-30 involved a Cessna 182RG, registration ZS-LDD, at On the farm Welgevonden in the Steelpoort district, ZA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot failed to lower the landing gear prior to touchdown due to distraction while managing an engine power emergency; the underlying cause of the sudden RPM decay could not be established.

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