AO-1992-006

After leaving Milford Sound with a full load of passengers to fly to Queenstown, the engine of ZK-FTL had begun to run less smoothly than normal so the pilot returned to Milford Sound. Following discussion with engineering staff, and ground running checks, the pilot took off for a test circuit. In the circuit the engine again ran roughly, and on late downwind stopped completely. An area of dry riverbed provided the only option for a forced landing. The nosewheel was torn out and the propeller, lower forward airframe, and engine structure were damaged in the landing on the boulder strewn surface. A defective fuel control unit was the most likely source of the problems experienced.