Fatal Engine Failure Leads to Aeroprakt A-22 Crash near Phalaborwa

Casualties unknown • Open field next to the Phalaborwa aerodrome fence, ZA

A private flight ended in tragedy on New Year's Day 2013 when an engine failure forced an Aeroprakt A-22 into a steep descent, resulting in two fatalities.

What happened

On the morning of 1 January 2013, an Aeroprakt A-22, registration ZU-EFH, departed from Phalaborwa aerodrome in Limpopo province for a private flight. The aircraft, carrying a pilot and a passenger, climbed from runway 19 and headed south. At an altitude of approximately 200 to 300 feet, the engine suddenly ceased operation.

An eyewitness observed the aircraft execute a right-hand turn, appearing to attempt a return to the airfield. During this maneuver, the aircraft entered a steep, nose-down attitude and disappeared behind a line of trees. The aircraft struck the ground in an open field near the aerodrome perimeter fence and immediately burst into flames. The intensity of the post-impact fire destroyed the aircraft and resulted in two fatalities.

Probable cause

The engine failed during the initial climb, and the subsequent attempt to turn the aircraft back toward the departure runway led to a steep descent and a fatal impact.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2013-01-01 Aeroprakt A-22 accident near Open field next to the Phalaborwa aerodrome fence, ZA?

A private flight ended in tragedy on New Year's Day 2013 when an engine failure forced an Aeroprakt A-22 into a steep descent, resulting in two fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2013-01-01 involved a Aeroprakt A-22, registration ZU-EFH, at Open field next to the Phalaborwa aerodrome fence, ZA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine failed during the initial climb, and the subsequent attempt to turn the aircraft back toward the departure runway led to a steep descent and a fatal impact.

Loading the flight search…