What happened
On June 2, 2001, a Parker-Teenie Two, registration ZS-WFA, was conducting circuit and landing maneuvers at Springs Aerodrome. During the third circuit, while the pilot was performing a downwind turn, smoke began to emerge from beneath the instrument panel, quickly filling the cockpit area.
As the smoke was observed originating near the fuel tank and the instrument panel, the pilot made the decision to turn off the ignition switch. This action resulted in an immediate engine shutdown. Attempting to reach Runway 2-1, the pilot found that the remaining gliding distance was insufficient to clear nearby trees. Consequently, the pilot executed a forced landing in an open grass field located north of the runway. During the landing, the aircraft's nose wheel struck a hole in the rough terrain, leading to significant damage to the wings and the fuselage.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the smoke and the subsequent engine failure. The investigation focused on the electrical components within the cockpit, specifically the area near the ignition switch and the battery leads. The inquiry looked into the mechanical impact of the landing and the environmental conditions at the time of the incident, which were noted as being clear and fine.
Findings
- The pilot performed a forced landing following the intentional shutdown of the engine.
- The engine stopped because the pilot switched the ignition to the off position to mitigate the risk of fire.
- The insulation of the battery lead likely burned back at the ignition switch.
- It is believed that poor contact at the switch or the terminal caused the wiring to overheat, producing the smoke observed in the cockpit.