Accident Overview
On 11 September 2024 at 1155Z, a Piper Aircraft PA 34-200T Seneca II, registration ZS-MCR, sustained substantial damage during a forced landing at Brakpan Airport (FABB) in Gauteng province. The aircraft was occupied by a flight instructor and a pilot undergoing instrument rating training. Neither occupant was harmed.
History of Flight
The flight departed Brakpan Airport at 1005Z for a training mission to the eastern general flying area. During pre-takeoff run-up checks, the left engine exhibited a magneto drop of 150 RPM, exceeding the normal 50 RPM limit. The crew proceeded to Springs Airport (FASI), where the aircraft maintenance organisation was based. An aircraft maintenance engineer removed and cleaned six lower spark plugs from the left engine and tested the magnetos, confirming they were within limits. After the maintenance, an engine run was conducted and parameters were normal.
The crew then flew to the eastern general flying area to complete simulated instrument flying exercises. After about an hour, they returned to Brakpan for circuits on Runway 36. During the second circuit, after a touch-and-go landing, the pilot applied full power. On initial climb, the aircraft suddenly yawed left. The flight instructor took over control, feathered the left engine propeller, and retracted the landing gear to reduce drag. However, the aircraft failed to climb, indicated airspeed dropped rapidly, and it continued yawing left while losing altitude. The aircraft landed approximately 60 metres left of Runway 36.
Aircraft Details
The aircraft was a Piper PA 34-200T Seneca II, registration ZS-MCR, serial number not specified in the report. It was operated by Airborne Aviation under Part 141 training operations. The aircraft had a certificate of airworthiness and was South African registered.
Aftermath
The aircraft sustained substantial damage. There was no fire, and both occupants were uninjured. The South African Civil Aviation Authority's Accident and Incident Investigations Division opened an investigation (reference CA18/2/3/10491). The preliminary report was published on 8 October 2024. No probable cause has been determined at this preliminary stage.