What happened
On the afternoon of 10 May 2024, a Savannah S aircraft, registration ZU-ITL, departed from River North Airfield for a local flight. The mission was intended to be a simple circuit, returning to the same airfield under visual meteorological conditions.
While flying over a farm located approximately 20 nautical miles northwest of Hartbeesfontein, the pilot experienced an engine malfunction characterized by rough running. In response to the deteriorating engine performance, the pilot initiated a precautionary forced landing on the farm. During the aircraft's landing roll, the wheels crossed a water drainage line, causing the plane to veer and strike a silage bag. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the propeller blades and the nose section of the aircraft, though the pilot escaped without injury.
The investigation
The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) Accident and Incident Investigations Division (AIID) launched an inquiry into the event. Investigators confirmed that the pilot held a valid Private Pilot Licence and a current Class 2 medical certificate. The aircraft was also found to have a valid Authority to Fly and a recent Certificate of Release to Service.
As part of the ongoing technical analysis, the engine was recovered and handed over to an approved person for detailed examination to determine the exact nature of the malfunction. The investigation also noted that the aircraft's cabin structure remained intact, making the accident survivable.
Findings
- The primary cause of the forced landing was an engine running rough during flight.
- The aircraft's subsequent damage was caused by the landing roll crossing a drainage ditch and colliding with a silage bag.
- The pilot was operating under the provisions of Part 94 of the Civil and Aviation Regulations.
- The aircraft's propeller and nose section sustained significant structural damage upon impact.