Introduction
On 1 August 2001, at approximately 1305Z, a Cessna 182R aircraft registered ZS-KNJ was involved in an accident shortly after departing from Pella aerodrome, near Pofadder in the Northern Cape. The private pilot and two passengers were on a flight destined for Oranjemund, Namibia. No injuries were reported.
Accident Details
The pilot reported a significant loss of engine power about five minutes after takeoff, necessitating a forced landing. The aircraft came down on a dirt road approximately 5 nautical miles west of Pella. During the landing, the nose landing gear collapsed, causing damage to the propeller and nose section of the aircraft. None of the three occupants sustained any injuries.
Investigation Findings
Following the accident, the aircraft was recovered by an Approved Maintenance Organisation (AMO). A post-accident engine test run revealed unsatisfactory performance. Further investigation traced the cause to an adhesive label that had been affixed to the air filter, carrying the manufacturer's instructions. This label became detached and was ingested through the opening of the carburettor heat box, ultimately becoming lodged inside the carburettor.
Probable Cause
The probable cause of the accident was determined to be the adhesive label from the air filter becoming detached and ingested into the carburettor, which caused a reduction in engine power and resulted in a forced landing.