What happened
On 18 August 2000, a Robinson R44, registration ZS-RFB, was conducting a private flight departing from and returning to a private game farm located approximately 8 nautical miles northeast of Vaalwater. During the flight, the pilot reported experiencing a loss of engine power and subsequently decided to perform a precautionary landing in an open area.
Upon landing, the aircraft came to rest in an area characterized by dry, approximately 30 cm high grass. Following the touchdown, a fire ignited in the surrounding vegetation. The resulting blaze spread to the aircraft, leading to the total destruction of the Robinson R44 and a significant portion of the nearby grassland. There were zero fatalities and zero injuries among the three people on board.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and reviewed available video footage of the event. While the pilot's report indicated an engine power loss, video evidence did not support the occurrence of an engine failure. Instead, the footage showed the pilot maintaining a hover before landing in the tall grass.
The engine underwent a partial disassembly and inspection; however, no mechanical defects were identified that could have caused a loss of power. While the engine was cleared of internal failure, the fire damage was extensive enough to prevent a thorough examination of the aircraft's electrical system and fuel system.