What happened
On 15 July 1999, a Reims Cessna FA 150K, registration EI-AUC, was conducting a flight intended as a proficiency check for a co-pilot. The flight departed from Weston Aerodrome with the intention of a short 30-minute training session. During the approach for Runway 2/25, while the crew was configuring the aircraft for landing, the engine power began to decay. Despite attempts by the instructor to restore power, the engine failed completely as the aircraft was on the base leg.
The instructor took control and performed an emergency landing in a cornfield approximately one nautical mile northeast of the runway threshold. Upon impact with the soft ground and standing crop, the nose undercarriage strut collapsed, causing the aircraft to invert. Both occupants were able to exit the aircraft without injury.
The investigation
The AAIU examined the aircraft's mechanical condition, the fuel system, and the maintenance records of the operator. The investigation revealed several significant discrepancies in the aircraft's instrumentation and maintenance logs. Notably, the fuel gauges were installed in a transposed manner, with the left-side gauge positioned on the right and vice versa. Furthermore, the right-hand fuel gauge was found to be stuck on "full" regardless of actual contents.
Technical analysis of the fuel system indicated that the aircraft was operating with very low fuel reserves. The investigation also looked into the possibility of carburetor icing, given the atmospheric conditions and the fact that the crew had been cycling the carburetor heat during the flight. Additionally, discrepancies were found between the club's flight information sheets and the aircraft's technical logbooks regarding total hours flown.
Findings
- The pilot did not maintain an adequate fuel reserve for the planned training flight.
- The aircraft was operating with critically low levels of usable fuel, which may have allowed air to enter the fuel lines due to the aircraft's attitude during the approach.
- Atmospheric conditions were conducive to carburetor icing, which may have interrupted the fuel/air mixture during the power reduction.
- The aircraft's fuel gauges were incorrectly installed and unreliable, leading the crew to ignore inaccurate indications.
- There were significant deficiencies in the maintenance, daily inspections, and management of the aircraft by the owner.
- The collapse of the undercarriage was caused by the impact with the soft, high-standing corn crop.
Safety action
- The investigation led to a recommendation for the IAA to remind owners of this aircraft type that fuel dipsticks must be used to visually verify fuel levels rather than relying on indicators.
- A recommendation was made for the IAA and the flying club to review procedures regarding aircraft maintenance, daily inspections, and the accurate recording of flight hours.