What happened
On the morning of 11 June 2024, a Cessna 182T aircraft, registered ZS-URO, was conducting a private flight between Mooketsi Airstrip and Esme 4 Farm in the Limpopo province. While flying over Giyane under visual meteorological conditions, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of engine power.
In response to the power loss, the pilot performed a forced landing on the D3732 public road. During the descent and landing roll, the aircraft's left wing struck a tree. The impact caused substantial damage to the left wing, aileron, propeller, and the nose gear strut, which subsequently collapsed. While the cabin structure remained intact and the accident was survivable, one of the three passengers sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
The South African Civil Aviation Authority's Accident and Incident Investigations Division (SACAA AIID) initiated an investigation into the occurrence. Investigators confirmed that the pilot held a valid Commercial Pilot Licence and a current Class 1 medical certificate. The aircraft was also found to have been in compliance with maintenance requirements, with a valid Certificate of Airworthiness and a recent Certificate of Release to Service issued in April 2024.
As part of the ongoing inquiry, the engine was recovered and sent to an aircraft maintenance organisation for detailed technical analysis to determine the exact nature of the power loss.