Accident Details
On 4 May 2001, at 0700Z, a Cessna C188 (registration ZS-KOD) was engaged in agricultural operations in the Heatonville district. The aircraft departed from and was intended to land at a private farm in the same area. The pilot, who held a Commercial Pilot Licence with endorsements for the aircraft type, night flight, and agricultural operations, had accumulated 1,600 total flying hours. The number of hours on type was unknown.
Sequence of Events
During the crop spraying detail, the pilot experienced engine problems and subsequently crashed. The impact destroyed the aircraft and severed two power lines during the attempted forced landing. The pilot sustained serious injuries.
Post-Accident Observations
According to the pilot and witnesses, fine weather conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. The pilot's safety harness failed during the accident, causing him to be ejected from the aircraft and end up underneath it. Bystanders had to lift the aircraft to free the pilot. The aircraft was not airworthy at the time of the accident; the final maintenance periodic inspection had been overflown by 295.09 hours. The propeller appeared to have been serviceable prior to the accident. The registered owner did not hold an Operators Licence as required by the Domestic Air Services Licence Act.
Injuries and Damage
The pilot was the sole occupant. There were no fatalities. The aircraft was destroyed by impact forces. The pilot sustained serious injuries.
Probable Cause
Possible fuel contamination as a result of a lack of regular maintenance.