What happened
On the morning of 23 November 2023, a PA-3-260, registration ZS-EIX, departed from Piet Retief Airport in South Africa to perform a scheduled LiDAR survey over a forest plantation in the Hhohho Region of Eswatini. The flight, operated by Aviation @Work (Pty) Ltd, was conducted under Visual Flight Rules in clear weather conditions.
Approximately ninety minutes into the mission, the pilot experienced a sudden loud bang, followed by the separation of a piece of the left-side engine cowling. This mechanical failure caused the cockpit to fill with dark smoke and resulted in severe vibrations throughout the airframe. The pilot noted a rapid drop in oil pressure and a rising engine temperature, while oil obscured the windshield.
After declaring a MAYDAY, the pilot initially sought clearance for a forced landing at FDMS but ultimately opted to land on a small road within the plantation due to rapidly decreasing altitude. While the aircraft successfully touched down on the road, the pilot applied heavy braking to avoid the end of the pavement. The aircraft subsequently veered off the road at a bend, striking tree stumps. The impact destroyed the left main landing gear and caused the aircraft to strike the ground nose-first. A fire broke out in the engine compartment, which quickly engulfed the fuselage, resulting in the total destruction of the aircraft. There were no fatalities among the two occupants.
The investigation
Investigators from the AAIIID examined the circumstances surrounding the mechanical failure and the subsequent landing sequence. The investigation reviewed the pilot's credentials, noting a valid commercial pilot license and a medical certificate. Toxicology reports confirmed the absence of intoxicating substances in the pilot's system.
Technical reviews focused on the aircraft's maintenance history, specifically noting that the engine overhaul had been completed recently, in June 2023. The investigation is currently analyzing human performance factors and the specific mechanics of the cowling separation.