What happened
On the morning of 30 December 2015, an Aeroprakt A-2-2, registration ZU-RON, was conducting a private scenic flight over the Vygeboom Dam in Mpumalanga. The pilot and a passenger were flying at an altitude of approximately 600 to 700 feet when the aircraft entered a right-hand turn. During this maneuver, the engine ceased operation, causing the aircraft to lose altitude rapidly. The aircraft struck the ground approximately 46 meters before sliding into a water channel. The impact destroyed the aircraft and resulted in serious injuries to the pilot and minor injuries to the passenger.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the wreckage and the engine components to determine the cause of the power loss. A post-accident inspection of the Rotax 912 ULS engine by an accredited engineer revealed no mechanical anomalies or defects. The investigation focused on the aircraft's fuel system, which utilizes separate tanks in each wing with a selector valve. Investigators found that while the right fuel tank contained sufficient fuel, the left tank had been depleted. The wreckage examination also indicated that the pilot was not utilizing the shoulder harness during the flight.
Findings
- The engine stopped due to fuel starvation because the left fuel tank had run dry.
- The pilot had selected the left tank for operation, but the right tank supply valve remained closed, leaving the available fuel inaccessible.
- The aircraft's maintenance records showed it had been properly maintained according to regulatory standards.
- Meteorological conditions were clear and suitable for flight, and the engine was found to be in good working order prior to the fuel depletion.