Accident Overview
On 14 March 2003, a Jabiru SP microlight aircraft, registration ZU-CUZ, was being operated on a private flight from Rand Airport (FAGM) to St Francis Bay. The pilot, who held a valid microlight aeroplane pilot licence, had accumulated 206 total flying hours, including 40 hours on type. The flight departed at 1044Z.
Sequence of Events
After approximately 6.5 hours of flying, the engine began to run rough and subsequently failed. The pilot executed a forced landing in the sea approximately 500 meters from the shore. The weather at the time was fine with a westerly wind of 15 to 20 knots.
Injuries and Evacuation
The pilot sustained minor injuries. He was able to evacuate the aircraft and successfully swam to shore. The aircraft was later recovered to St Francis Bay Harbour by the Sea Rescue Services.
Probable Cause
The South African Civil Aviation Authority determined that the engine failure was due to fuel exhaustion.