Accident Overview
On 20 April 2002, at approximately 0505Z, a Cessna 172E (registration ZS-OOJ) operated by a private pilot crashed about 12 nautical miles northwest of Rustenburg aerodrome. The aircraft was on a flight from Thabazimbi (FATI) to Rustenburg (FARB) when the incident occurred.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The pilot held a private pilot license, but the license was not valid at the time of the accident. He was a part-owner of the aircraft and had accumulated 137.5 total flying hours, all on type. The weather at the time was CAVOK.
The Accident
While en route, the engine failed. The pilot attempted a forced landing on a mine road. Due to unforeseen traffic on the road, he was forced to land on an adjacent field. During the landing, the left wing contacted the ground, and the aircraft collided with a tree.
Investigation Findings
A post-accident investigation revealed that both fuel tanks (intact and not ruptured) were completely empty. The carburettor fuel inlet pipe was disconnected and also empty. The fuel filter (gascolator) was inspected and found empty. The aircraft sustained extensive damage. The pilot sustained serious injuries and was hospitalized.
Probable Cause
The probable cause, as stated in the official report, is engine failure due to fuel exhaustion, which resulted in a forced landing approximately 12 nautical miles northwest of Rustenburg aerodrome.