Synopsis
On 13 April 2006, a Cessna 150F (registration ZS-EGL) was involved in an accident during a solo training flight at Nelspruit Aerodrome. The aircraft was operated by a student pilot with a total of 55.0 flying hours, including 4.0 hours on type. The flight originated and was intended to return to Nelspruit Aerodrome (FANS). The accident occurred approximately 100 feet short of Runway 22 at 1450Z. Meteorological conditions were reported as surface wind light and variable, temperature 23°C, and visibility CAVOK. There was one person on board (the pilot); no injuries or fatalities were reported.
Sequence of Events
The pilot, flying solo as authorized by an instructor, planned to conduct straight and level flight at various power settings to the Barberton ridge and back, with a planned duration of 1.1 hours. A pre-flight inspection was performed: engine oil was checked at six and a half quarts; fuel quantity was measured using a calibrated dipstick showing two lines on each tank on the 6-line stick, each line representing 18 liters, which the pilot interpreted as giving 2 hours endurance. A fuel sample from the right wing was strained and found clear of water contamination. The engine was started, and the aircraft taxied to the holding point of Runway 04 for pre-takeoff checks before positioning for takeoff.
The pilot set an alarm clock to indicate when to return. After reaching the Barberton ridge, he decided to head back to Nelspruit Aerodrome and joined overhead the field at 4500 feet MSL before the alarm sounded. He then joined left downwind for Runway 22, at which point the alarm clock went off. The fuel indicators still showed sufficient fuel. On base leg, 20 degrees of flap was selected and carburetor heat was turned on. Turning final approach at an indicated airspeed of 70 mph, the pilot selected carburetor heat off. Shortly thereafter, the engine RPM decayed from 2000 to 1500 RPM, and the engine failed.
The pilot declared a Mayday call on frequency 125.2 MHz, reporting fuel exhaustion. Another aircraft acknowledged the emergency call and requested intentions. The pilot broadcasted that he would execute an emergency landing, turning toward a field beside Runway 22. Airspeed dropped to 55 mph, and when it became apparent that the aircraft would not clear power lines, the pilot pulled up, triggering the stall warning. He leveled off at 45 mph and landed just after passing some poles. On landing, the aircraft bounced twice; on the second bounce, it collided with a dam wall, causing the front main landing gear to separate. The aircraft came to rest in bushes, and the pilot vacated after switching off the master and removing his headset. Another aircraft in the circuit spotted him.
Probable Cause
Forced landing in an unsuitable terrain following an engine failure. Contributory: fuel exhaustion.