What happened
The aircraft was operating during cruise flight conditions when it encountered snow showers. Suddenly, the engine experienced a complete loss of power. The incident occurred while the plane was in level flight, requiring immediate attention from the crew to manage the emergency situation.
The investigation
Following the event, company maintenance personnel conducted a thorough examination of the aircraft to determine the root cause of the mechanical failure. Inspectors focused on the fuel system components, specifically looking for obstructions or damage that could explain the sudden power loss.
Findings
The inspection revealed that the fuel vent tube located on top of the left wing had been bent back. This deformation allowed snow to become impacted through the curve of the line during the flight through the snow showers. The blockage created a vacuum effect, resulting in fuel starvation to the engine. The physical obstruction prevented adequate fuel flow, leading directly to the loss of power.
Safety message
This incident highlights the importance of ensuring that fuel vent tubes are properly secured and free from damage that could allow precipitation or debris to enter the fuel system during flight in adverse weather conditions.