Engine Failure Leads to Forced Landing in Training Aircraft near Heidelberg

Casualties unknown • On an open field 3 nm south-west of Heidelberg Aerodrome, ZA

A training flight in a Cessna A152 resulted in a forced landing and substantial aircraft damage after the engine failed during a circuit maneuver.

What happened

On 25 October 2013, a Cessna A1s2, registration ZS-PNV, was conducting circuit training maneuvers near Heidelberg Aerodrome. After completing three successful touch-and-go landings, the aircraft entered a wide left-hand turn to accommodate other traffic. During this maneuver, the engine began to run roughly, followed by a drop in RPM and a total loss of power.

The instructor took control of the aircraft and attempted to restart the engine, but the failure persisted. To avoid obstacles, the instructor initiated a forced landing in an open field approximately 3 nm southwest of the aerodrome. During the descent, the crew had to lower the aircraft's altitude to clear electrical power lines and trees. Upon touchdown, the aircraft struck an anthill, causing the right main landing gear to break off. The aircraft then skidded 72 meters before coming to a halt. While there were no injuries to the instructor or student, the aircraft sustained substantial damage to its wing, tail, and landing gear.

The investigation

SACAA AIID investigators examined the aircraft's mechanical condition, fuel quality, and the environmental factors present at the time of the accident. The investigation included engine run tests, inspections of the fuel system, and an analysis of the spark plugs.

Technicians found that the fuel was of the correct grade and free of contaminants, and the aircraft's weight and balance were within safe limits. While the investigation noted slight fouling on two of the spark plugs, this was attributed to a rich fuel-air mixture and was not considered a cause of the engine failure. Furthermore, engine run tests performed by approved personnel showed the engine operating smoothly without any identified anomalies or fuel restrictions.

Findings

  • The engine failure occurred during a wide turn, and the cause of the engine failure could not be determined.
  • The instructor successfully managed the emergency by communicating with ground crew and executing a forced landing.
  • The landing site contained significant hazards, including electrical lines, trees, and an anthill.
  • There was a possibility of moderate carburetor icing due to the atmospheric conditions, though the aircraft was operating at a low altitude with high power settings.
  • The student pilot was at an early stage of flight training and was primarily focused on flight fundamentals.

Probable cause

An unsuccessful forced landing following an engine failure during a training flight; the specific cause of the engine failure remains undetermined.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2013-11-04 Cessna A152 accident near On an open field 3 nm south-west of Heidelberg Aerodrome, ZA?

A training flight in a Cessna A152 resulted in a forced landing and substantial aircraft damage after the engine failed during a circuit maneuver.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2013-11-04 involved a Cessna A152, registration ZS-PNV, at On an open field 3 nm south-west of Heidelberg Aerodrome, ZA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An unsuccessful forced landing following an engine failure during a training flight; the specific cause of the engine failure remains undetermined.

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