What happened
On 14 October 2015, a Bushbaby 500 micro-light aircraft, registration ZU-CJD, was conducting a private flight from Lanseria Aerodrome. After receiving takeoff clearance for runway 07 via intersection A2, the pilot commenced the takeoff roll. Shortly after reaching an altitude between 100 and 150 feet, the engine began to splutter.
Unable to land straight ahead due to unsuitable terrain, the pilot attempted a sharp left turn to reach the grass area situated between the runway and the taxiway. During this maneuver, the aircraft's tail wheel struck the ground, causing the aircraft to pitch forward and the left wing to impact the surface. The aircraft came to rest against an embankment. While the pilot sustained a sprained back and required hospital evaluation, there were no fatalities.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the wreckage and interviewed eyewitnesses. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft had sufficient fuel, and the right-hand carburetor bowl contained uncontaminated fuel. Although the engine had misfired during the climb, eyewitnesses noted that the engine appeared to have returned to normal operation before the aircraft struck the ground. This was supported by evidence that the three propeller blades had fractured at the hub, indicating the engine was still producing power at the moment of impact.
Findings
- The aircraft had been taxied a significant distance from its hangar to the runway prior to takeoff.
- The engine experienced a period of power loss following takeoff.
- Fuel vapour lock was identified as a likely cause of the engine instability, potentially triggered by the long taxi distance and the lack of a fuel return line or cooling system.
- The pilot's attempt to execute a tight turn for an emergency landing resulted in an unsuccessful forced landing.