What happened
On 30 April 2012, a Jabiru UL aircraft, registration ZU-FHO, was conducting a private positioning flight from Margate Aerodrome toward Springs Aerodrome. The flight had previously been diverted to Margate due to weather conditions. While en route to the intended destination, the aircraft's engine suddenly lost power, forcing the pilot to execute an emergency landing.
The aircraft came to rest on uneven terrain approximately one kilometer southeast of Nagle Dam in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the airframe, including the wings, propeller, and flight control systems. The pilot sustained spinal injuries and was transported to a hospital for treatment.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the wreckage and conducted a specialized engine analysis at the manufacturer's facility. The investigation focused on the sudden loss of engine power. During the on-site inspection, investigators discovered that the scat hose, which is responsible for providing air to the fuel control system, was disconnected from the cowling air intake.
Further technical examination revealed that the steel wire reinforcement had been removed from the end of the scat hose to make it more flexible, allowing it to fit onto a tapered connection on the cowling. During engine testing, it was confirmed that when the hose was in a closed or collapsed position, the engine ceased operation immediately due to a lack of airflow.
Findings
- The engine experienced a total loss of power due to air starvation.
- The scat hose became dislodged from its attachment point on the cowling duct.
- The tapered shape of the connection, combined with engine vibrations, likely caused the hose to slip from its position.
- The removal of the hose's internal steel reinforcement contributed to the instability of the connection.
- The aircraft was airworthy and maintained according to regulations at the time of departure.