What happened
The pilot was operating the aircraft when it experienced an unexpected loss of engine power. Unable to maintain altitude or reach a suitable airport, the pilot initiated a forced landing procedure. The aircraft touched down in an open field. During the impact with the ground, the airframe sustained substantial damage after striking steel rods located within the landing area.
The investigation
Following the accident, investigators examined the engine components to determine the root cause of the power failure. The engine was removed and disassembled for a detailed inspection. Examination of the internal mechanisms revealed significant mechanical failures. Specifically, the camshaft drive gear was found to have a chunk missing, consisting of three teeth. Additionally, the crankshaft cluster, which meshes with the camshaft drive gear, was discovered to have seven teeth stripped off at their base.
Findings
The investigation identified mechanical failure of the engine as the primary factor leading to the accident. The substantial damage to the airframe was a direct result of the forced landing in an unprepared area containing obstacles. The specific mechanical defects observed in the camshaft drive gear and the crankshaft cluster indicate a catastrophic internal engine failure that resulted in total power loss during flight.
Safety message
Regular maintenance inspections are critical for detecting early signs of gear wear or damage before they lead to in-flight failures. Pilots must remain vigilant regarding engine performance parameters and be prepared to execute emergency landing procedures if power is lost.