What happened
On 26 October 2002, a PIPER PA 28-160, registration ZS-MKZ, departed from Lanseria Aerodrome on a ferry flight destined for Brakpan Aerodrome. Shortly after departing from Runway 06L and executing a right-hand turn, the aircraft's engine performance began to degrade. The pilot observed the RPM fluctuating wildly between 2450 and 1700 RPM, which led to a simultaneous drop in airspeed and rate of climb.
As the aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 5400 ft ASL, the pilot attempted several emergency procedures to restore power. These included switching to the electric fuel pump and transitioning from the right-hand fuel tank to the left-hand fuel tank. Additionally, the pilot experimented with adjusting the fuel-air mixture and applying carburetor heat, but these actions resulted in further power decay. With the airspeed stabilizing at only 75 MPH and the inability to maintain altitude, the pilot prepared for an emergency descent and selected an open field to the right of the flight path for a forced landing.
While there were 0 fatalities and 0 injuries, the aircraft and a farm perimeter fence sustained substantial damage during the impact.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical failure that led to the engine's inability to maintain steady RPM. Investigators examined the fuel system and the engine's performance during the period of power loss. The aircraft had recently undergone a maintenance inspection (MPI) just one day prior to the accident.
Findings
- The investigation established that the primary cause of the power loss was fuel starvation.
- This starvation was directly caused by a leak in the fuel filter bowl.
- The leak originated from an incorrectly mounted fuel filter bowl.