What happened
On the evening of 1 February 2001, a Mooney M20J, registered ZS-KEM, was performing night circuits and landings at Klerksdorp Aerodrome (FAKD). The aircraft was operating a private flight with three people on board, including the pilot.
Witnesses observing the flight from the Klerksdorp–Stilfontein road noted the aircraft flying in a northerly direction. As the aircraft transitioned into a westerly turn, observers saw the plane diving toward the ground. Those on the ground perceived that the aircraft appeared to be traveling at a very low airspeed during its descent.
The investigation
An investigation into the crash site revealed that the engine was not running at the time of impact. Investigators examined the fuel system and discovered that the fuel selector switch had been set to the OFF position. The investigation noted that the fuel selector lacks a mechanical latch or lock, meaning it is possible to move the switch to the off position accidentally.
Findings
- The accident resulted in 3 fatalities.
- The engine failed during the flight, likely during the downwind or base leg of the landing circuit.
- The primary cause was the inadvertent selection of the fuel selector to the OFF position.
- Following the engine failure, the pilot likely attempted to extend the aircraft's glide, which led to a loss of control during the turn onto final approach.
- The aircraft entered an incipient spin before impacting the ground.