What happened
On 12 May 2018, a Zodiac CH601 HD aircraft, registration ZU-FFA, was conducting a ferry flight from Vereeniging to Rand Aerodrome. During the flight, the pilot experienced radio communication difficulties and briefly diverted to Panorama Aerodrome to retrieve a handheld radio.
While flying near the Gosforth ramp toll plaza, the engine began to lose power and eventually stopped completely. Realizing the aircraft could not reach the runway, the pilot attempted an emergency landing in an open field short of runway 11. The aircraft impacted the ground, nosed over, and came to rest in an inverted position. The pilot sustained serious injuries to the left shoulder but was able to exit the cockpit unassisted before emergency services arrived.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the aircraft's mechanical configuration and the circumstances leading to the engine failure. The investigation focused on the fuel system, which had been modified to accommodate a Lycoming O-235-C engine, a powerplant not originally recommended by the manufacturer.
Investigators analyzed the proximity of the fuel lines to the engine's exhaust system and reviewed the maintenance history of the aircraft. The inquiry also looked into the pilot's radio procedures and the validity of the pilot's license at the time of the accident.