What happened
The pilot reported hearing a loud bang in the aircraft engine while in flight. Immediately following this event, the engine lost power and began emitting smoke. The pilot initiated a forced landing procedure. During the descent and approach, the aircraft passed through four fences before striking a ditch. Upon impact, the nose gear collapsed. A fire, which had started during the flight, ignited after the two occupants exited the aircraft. The fire destroyed the cockpit area.
The investigation
An inspection of the engine was conducted to determine the cause of the in-flight failure. The examination revealed that the front crankcase housing had separated from the rest of the engine assembly. This separation likely contributed to the loss of power and subsequent smoke emission reported by the pilot.
Findings
The primary mechanical failure involved the engine where the front crankcase housing separated. This structural failure led to immediate power loss. The aircraft sustained substantial damage during the forced landing, including striking multiple obstacles and collapsing the nose gear. The resulting fire caused significant destruction to the cockpit. Fortunately, both occupants were able to exit the aircraft before the fire intensified.
Safety message
This incident highlights the critical nature of engine integrity and the importance of immediate emergency procedures when mechanical failures occur in flight. Pilots must be prepared for sudden power loss and execute forced landing protocols efficiently to minimize injury and damage.