What happened
During cruise flight, the aircraft experienced a sudden and complete loss of engine power. In response to this critical failure, the pilot initiated a distress call using the standard 'MAYDAY' frequency to alert air traffic control and nearby aircraft to the emergency situation.
Following the transmission, the pilot attempted an emergency landing on the available ground below. The terrain at the landing site was characterized by significant roughness and uneven surfaces, which likely complicated the approach and touchdown phases of the maneuver.
Upon impact with the ground, the structural integrity of the aircraft was compromised. The force of the landing caused the nose section to pitch downward violently, resulting in the aircraft nosing over and coming to rest on its back. This orientation indicates a severe accident sequence where the forward momentum was not adequately arrested by the landing gear or wing structure.
The investigation
A thorough examination of the wreckage was conducted to determine the mechanical status of the aircraft at the time of the incident. Investigators inspected the fuel system components, including lines, tanks, and selectors, to identify any potential leaks, blockages, or mechanical failures that might have contributed to the power loss.
The physical evidence gathered from the site provided critical insights into the sequence of events. The condition of the wreckage confirmed the narrative of a hard landing on difficult terrain, but the inspection also revealed specific details regarding the aircraft's operational state prior to impact.
Findings
The examination of the fuel system yielded a definitive result regarding the cause of the power loss. Investigators found no evidence of any fuel remaining in the fuel system at the time of the accident. This absence of fuel indicates that the engine stopped due to starvation rather than a mechanical failure of the propulsion unit itself.
The combination of total power loss and the subsequent landing on rough, uneven terrain led to the aircraft nosing over onto its back. The lack of fuel was the primary factor in the loss of control and the severity of the impact.