What happened
On 26 December 2010, a private flight departed from Morningstar Aerodrome in the Western Cape. While the Windlass Trike, registration ZS-WUO, was climbing through 1,000 feet above ground level, the engine experienced a sudden loss of power. The engine dropped to an idle speed and failed to respond to throttle inputs, forcing the pilot to execute an emergency procedure.
Recognizing the proximity of De Goede Ontmoeting Aerodrome, the pilot initiated a glide toward the field. Due to the aircraft's glide profile, the pilot was unable to land into the wind at the northern end of the runway and instead aligned for a downwind approach. During the landing sequence, the aircraft touched down and bounced. Although the pilot maintained directional control initially, a second touchdown caused the aircraft to veer to the right. Despite attempts to use the brakes, the microlight lost control and nosed over onto its right side. There were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger, though the aircraft sustained substantial damage.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the aircraft's engine and maintenance history. The investigation confirmed that the pilot held a valid microlight license and medical certificate, and the aircraft had a valid authority to fly. Maintenance records showed the last annual inspection had been completed earlier that year.
An inspection of the engine following the accident revealed a hole burned through one of the pistons. While the exact mechanism—such as pre-ignition, detonation, or incorrect combustion—could not be definitively identified, the damage was sufficient to cause the critical loss of power observed during the flight. The investigation also noted that the landing took place at an unlicensed aerodrome, though weather conditions were clear and did not contribute to the event.
Findings
- The engine power loss was caused by a mechanical failure involving a hole burned in a piston.
- The pilot allowed the aircraft to bounce during a forced landing, which led to the loss of control and the subsequent nose-over.