What happened
The aircraft sustained damage during an off-airport landing after the engine ceased operation. The pilot reported that there was sufficient fuel on board at the time of the incident. The flight was being conducted as a ferry flight to deliver the aircraft to its owner following a recent engine change.
Prior to the failure, the engine exhibited vibration. The pilot initially perceived this vibration as turbulence for a short period before the engine quit completely. An attempt to restart the engine was unsuccessful.
The pilot attempted to land on a blacktop road but was unable to remain on the surface. The aircraft ended up off the road in an area containing rocks and bushes, resulting in damage to the airframe.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical status of the aircraft following the engine change and the circumstances of the emergency landing. The pilot's account indicated that fuel quantity was adequate, ruling out fuel exhaustion as a primary factor based on available testimony. The vibration observed prior to failure was noted but not definitively linked to a specific mechanical component in the provided narrative.
Findings
The engine failure occurred during cruise or climb phase of a ferry flight. Contributing factors included the inability to restart the engine and the subsequent forced landing in terrain unsuitable for safe touchdown. The vibration preceding the failure suggests a potential mechanical issue with the newly installed engine, though specific cause is not detailed beyond the pilot's observation.
Safety message
This incident highlights the risks associated with ferry flights following major maintenance. Pilots should be vigilant for abnormal vibrations and ensure emergency landing sites are identified well in advance of such operations.