What happened
On 20 February 2005, a Cessna 188 (registration ZS-PHC) was engaged in a multi-day ferry operation intended to move the aircraft from Gabon Aerodrome to Oribi Aerodrome in South Africa. The mission was planned as a six-leg journey involving several stops for fuel and rest. Following a successful initial leg from Gabon to Luanda, the pilot commenced the second leg toward Kitwe Aerodrome.
While cruising at 5,000 feet, the pilot attempted to switch fuel from the left tank to the right tank. During this procedure, the pilot observed a simultaneous drop in fuel indications for both tanks. In an attempt to manage the fuel supply, the pilot opened the feeder tank. Within approximately four minutes of using the hopper tank, the engine lost power and the propeller began to windmill. Despite attempts to restore power, the aircraft continued to lose altitude. Due to the dense forest canopy at the accident site, the pilot was unable to locate a suitable clearing, resulting in a collision with high trees. The impact caused the left wing to fail and left the aircraft resting on its side.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance history and the sequence of fuel management leading to the power loss. Records indicated that the last mandatory periodic inspection had been completed on 06 October 2004. The pilot had performed a test flight prior to the start of the ferry mission because the aircraft had been stationary for two months, and no issues were noted at that time. The investigation also noted the terrain conditions at the crash site, which prevented the recovery of the aircraft due to the density of the forest and economic constraints.