Accident Details
On 20 May 2005 at approximately 1245Z, a Piper PA24-250 (registration ZS-CKH) experienced an engine failure on approach to Beaufort West Aerodrome. The aircraft had departed from Bothaville Aerodrome and was en route to Grabouw Aerodrome, with a planned intermediate stop at Beaufort West for fuel. During the attempted landing, the pilot did not extend the undercarriage, resulting in a gear-up landing.
Aircraft and Occupants
The aircraft was operated under a Private license and was correctly maintained. The pilot held a valid Private Pilot License with a type endorsement for the aircraft, and a valid medical certificate (with restriction for bi-focal glasses, valid until 31 December 2005). Total flying experience was 882 hours, with 33 hours on type. The aircraft had flown 25.62 hours since its last mandatory periodic inspection (MPI) on 10 November 2004 (total airframe time 4251.00 hours). The three occupants (pilot and two passengers) were reported not injured.
Investigation Findings
No defects or malfunctions were found on the aircraft that could have contributed to the accident. The engineer who repaired the aircraft reported that the fuel tanks contained no fuel. Subsequent tests of the fuel floats and gauges at the maintenance organisation showed normal operation. All applicable airworthiness directives and service bulletins had been complied with.
Probable Cause
It appears that when the engine failed due to fuel exhaustion, the pilot concentrated too much on making the field, which resulted in him forgetting to lower the undercarriage during landing. The contributing factor is attributed to poor flight planning by the pilot with regard to fuel for the flight.