History of Flight
On 27 December 2019, at approximately 1245Z, the pilot and five passengers departed Grand Central Aerodrome (FAGC) aboard a Beechcraft Bonanza A36 (ZS-KAJ) on a private flight to Louis Trichardt Aerodrome (FALO). The take-off and cruise phases were uneventful. Upon turning final approach to Runway 10 at FALO and after being cleared for landing by air traffic control, the aircraft engine lost power and went into idle. The pilot attempted to troubleshoot, but the throttle was stuck on full power with no engine power available. The pilot glided the aircraft over trees. The main landing gear contacted treetops while gliding. The pilot maintained the aircraft just above stall speed. While gliding over the last tall tree, the right wing struck a treetop, turning the aircraft 45° to the right of its path. The aircraft impacted the ground with the left main wheel, causing it to collapse. The aircraft spun several times before coming to a stop facing the direction from which it had approached. The pilot ensured all passengers disembarked safely.
Injuries and Damage
The pilot and five passengers did not sustain any injuries. The aircraft was substantially damaged. Damage included the landing gear and both right and left wings. No other damage occurred.
Engine and Throttle Examination
After disembarking, the pilot opened the engine cowling and found the bolt, nut, and pin connecting the fuel throttle rod end to the fuel control unit arm were missing. The separation of the throttle control cable from the fuel control arm caused the engine to lose power and idle. The nut, bolt, and pin were never located.
Aircraft and Flight Information
The aircraft, a Beechcraft Bonanza A36, serial number E-1102, was manufactured in 1977. Total airframe hours at the time of the accident were 5534.68. The engine was a Continental IO-520-BA10B with 462.88 hours since new. The fuel control unit had been installed in 2011 and never removed. The pilot held a valid Commercial Pilot Licence with 3890.40 total flying hours, including 50.60 hours on type. The accident occurred during daylight at GPS coordinates S 23°03'47.17" E 029° 51'21.72" at an elevation of 2989 feet, short of Runway 10 at FALO.