What happened
On 28 April 2003, a BEECH A36TC, registration ZS-LFC, was conducting a private flight from Gariep Dam to Stellenbosch with four occupants on board. During the descent phase, approximately 20 minutes before the intended arrival, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of electrical power that lasted for roughly three minutes. The pilot proactively notified Cape Town Air Traffic Control of the situation to prepare for potential communication loss.
As the pilot attempted to deploy the landing gear using the standard electric system, the gear movement stalled halfway through the cycle. Simultaneously, all electrical instruments and radios ceased functioning. The pilot maintained contact with ground personnel at Stellenbosch via a mobile phone. While circling the aerodrome, the pilot attempted to use the manual emergency gear extension system. However, due to the aircraft's configuration—with partially extended gear and 10-degree flaps selected—the flight characteristics became difficult to manage. The pilot requested a passenger assist with the manual handle, but the passenger also struggled with the mechanism.
After confirming the gear status with ground observers, the pilot diverted to Cape Town International Airport. Upon arrival, the control tower observed that the gear was actually in the retracted position. The aircraft subsequently performed a wheels-up landing on Runway 34, resulting in damage to the propeller, fuselage, and flaps. There were no injuries to the four occupants.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the electrical systems and the pilot's execution of emergency procedures. The inquiry focused on the origin of the power loss and the subsequent mechanical failure of the landing gear deployment.
Findings
- The primary electrical failure was caused by a combination of a failed alternator, a worn master solenoid, and a short circuit within the instrument lighting system.
- The pilot lacked sufficient familiarity with the manual landing gear extension procedure.
- The pilot failed to adhere to the specific instructions outlined in the Pilot’s Operating Handbook and the cockpit placards.
- The manual gear extension lever was rotated in the incorrect direction, which caused the partially extended gear to retract further into the wing rather than deploying fully.