History of Flight
On 30 November 2010, a Piper PA-46-310P, registration ZS-LLA, departed from runway 29 at Wonderboom aerodrome on a private acceptance flight following maintenance. The pilot, who was also the owner, completed pre-flight checks and selected the right-hand fuel tank. During rotation, the engine failed. The pilot switched to the left fuel tank, but the engine did not respond. He set flaps to 40° and executed a forced landing on an open area of veld along the extended centreline of runway 29.
After touching down at speed, the aircraft was heading toward trees, a concrete structure, and telephone wires at the far edge of the area. Unable to stop, the pilot raised the nose to clear the obstacles. The aircraft then struck the ground heavily, causing the nose wheel to collapse and the aircraft to swing 90° before stopping.
Damage and Injuries
The propeller, nose wheel, and wings sustained substantial damage. The pilot did not sustain any injuries.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident inspection revealed that the right-hand fuel tank selector was found in the selected position, contrary to the pilot's recollection of switching to the left tank. The pilot later stated uncertainty about his actions during the emergency. A subsequent engine test run on the aircraft showed no abnormalities. Fuel quantity readings differed depending on aircraft attitude: in a nose-down attitude, the left tank indicated six gallons and the right empty; in a level attitude, left indicated nine gallons and right eight. Approximately 27 litres of fuel were drained from each tank after the test.
Probable Cause
The report states the probable cause as: "Unsuccessful forced landing following an engine failure shortly after rotation."