Synopsis
On 1 October 2002, at approximately 1205Z, a Mooney M20F, registration ZS-FWD, departed from FAKM (Kimberley Aerodrome) for a private flight to FALC (Lime Acres). Shortly after takeoff, the engine lost power. The pilot executed a forced landing on the N12 national road leading to Cape Town. During the landing roll, the aircraft collided with a vehicle on the road, veered left, exited the road, passed through a fence, and came to rest in an adjacent field. There were no injuries to the pilot (the sole occupant) or any other persons. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, while the fence and the vehicle sustained minor damage.
Investigation
The pilot held a valid airline transport pilot license with a type rating for the Mooney M20F, a valid medical certificate, and had accumulated 12,771 total flying hours, including 600 hours on type. According to available records, the aircraft had been correctly maintained. Meteorological conditions at the time were fine, with wind from 280 degrees at 5 knots and temperature 22°C.
Investigation revealed that the aircraft's fuel system was severely contaminated with dirt. The fuel filters at the Kimberley fuel depot were checked and found to be clean. Additionally, the fuel itself was tested for contamination and was found to be clean and satisfactory.
Probable Cause
The engine lost power as a result of a contaminated fuel filter that will not always be noticed during drain checks as dirt may be captured on the filter.