Flight History
On 27 July 2006, at approximately 08:50 UTC, a Cessna 152, registration CS-AUS, departed Maia Aerodrome (LPVL) for a visual navigation training flight. The aircraft was owned by Aero Clube do Porto and operated by Nortávia – Transportes Aéreos, SA. On board were a student pilot and an instructor pilot. The flight plan included stops at Santa Cruz (LPSC) and Santarém (LPST). After departing Santa Cruz at 11:25 UTC with 25 liters in the left tank and 22 liters in the right tank, the aircraft flew low along the coast to Ovar, then climbed to 2,000 feet toward Crestuma. While approaching the destination, the engine began to falter. The instructor attempted to restore power by manipulating the throttle, but the engine eventually stopped and could not be restarted.
Emergency Landing
The instructor contacted Porto ATC, declared an emergency, and stated he would attempt a forced landing near Valongo, as the altitude was insufficient to glide to the destination. He performed the engine failure checklist from memory and sighted an agricultural path within a property. He maneuvered for a landing on the dirt path, with flaps extended. During the final approach, a tractor entered the path, forcing the pilot to veer right. The aircraft struck vine-support stones, causing substantial damage to the wings, fuselage, wing struts, and landing gear. The aircraft came to rest approximately six meters into the vineyard.
Damage and Injuries
The aircraft was substantially damaged and considered a total loss. The engine and propeller were undamaged. Minor damage was reported to vineyard supports and vines. The student pilot was uninjured; the instructor sustained minor scalp abrasions.
Weather and Other Factors
Weather at the time was good with clear skies, visibility, and northwest winds of 10–15 knots. Weather was not considered relevant to the occurrence. The aircraft had a valid airworthiness certificate and had undergone its last inspection on 26 July 2006.