What happened
On 21 November 2003, a Douglas DC-3C, registration ZS-BXF, was performing a ferry flight from Swartkop Aerodrome to Lanseria Aerodrome. The aircraft was operated by Skycoach (SYY) 668, with a supernumerary pilot on board to observe procedures. Following a completed sightseeing flight with passengers, the aircraft departed Lanseria at approximately 1610Z for its return leg to Swartkop.
While climbing through roughly 6000 ft AMSL, the left engine failed. The pilot flying attempted to restore power by activating the left engine booster pump and switching the fuel source from the left main tank to the left auxiliary tank, which briefly stabilized the engine. However, the right engine subsequently failed. Although the crew managed to temporarily recover the left engine by adjusting the right-side fuel selectors, the left engine failed a second time, followed by a second failure of the right engine.
Realizing the aircraft could not reach Runway 24, the crew executed a wheels-up forced landing in an open grass field located 2 nautical miles east of the Lanseria VOR. All occupants, including the crew and the supernumerary pilot, evacuated the aircraft safely without 0 fatalities or injuries.
The investigation
SACAA AIID examined the sequence of engine failures and the crew's attempts to manage the fuel system during the emergency. The investigation focused on the fuel management actions taken by the pilot in command and the pilot flying, specifically the switching between main and auxiliary tanks and the use of booster pumps. The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's maintenance history, noting that the last inspection had been completed in September 2003 and all airworthiness directives were up to date.
Findings
- The primary cause of the dual engine failure was fuel starvation.
- The crew's lack of precise knowledge regarding the current fuel levels in the various tanks contributed to the incident.
- Incorrect fuel tank selections during the emergency procedures further contributed to the starvation of both engines.