Incident Overview
On September 10, 2000, at approximately 10:00 UTC, a Beech F33A aircraft with registration ZS-MRM was involved in an accident near Lanseria. The aircraft was operating under a private flight plan from Gaborone, Botswana, to Lanseria. At the time of the incident, the pilot-in-command held a valid private license and had accumulated 102.6 total flying hours, including 16.0 hours on this specific type.
Operational Context
The aircraft was carrying four individuals: one pilot and three passengers. While positioned on a right downwind approach for Runway 35 at an altitude of 5,500 feet above ground level, the pilot reported a loss of engine power. Following standard engine failure procedures, the pilot notified the control tower of the technical difficulties.
Accident Sequence
Due to a rapid descent rate, the decision was made to execute a forced landing. The aircraft impacted an open field located approximately one kilometer from the threshold of Runway 35. It came to a complete stop roughly 50 meters from the initial point of impact. Meteorological conditions at the time were fine, with winds recorded at 25 knots from 300 degrees.
Outcome and Investigation
No injuries or fatalities were reported among the occupants. The investigation identified that the engine's failure to deliver full power, described as "splattering," was likely caused by the mixture being set too lean. This condition resulted in a fuel/air mixture that was insufficient for proper combustion, leading to the loss of power.