Engine failure during takeoff leads to aircraft excursion in Łososina Dolna

Casualties unknown • Łososina Dolna (EPNL), PL

A Zlin Z526M aircraft experienced an engine failure shortly after takeoff, resulting in an uncontrolled landing on a public road near the airfield.

What happened

On July 2, 2008, a Zlin Z526M was performing its third flight of the day from the Łososina Dolna airfield. After departing the runway and reaching a speed of 140 km/h, the pilot initiated a climb and retracted the landing gear. At an altitude of approximately 40 meters and roughly 200 meters from the end of the runway, the engine suddenly stopped working. The engine briefly restarted for one to two seconds before failing completely.

The pilot attempted a right-hand turn toward the field located behind the airport. However, due to the low altitude, the aircraft crossed the airfield perimeter fence and landed on a public road. As the aircraft slid along the roadway, the right wing struck a road sign, which sheared off the wingtip and caused the aircraft to rotate 90 degrees. The aircraft eventually came to a halt at an intersection. There were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger, though approximately 40-50 liters of fuel leaked from the damaged airframe.

The investigation

The PKBWL conducted an examination of the airframe and the engine. During the inspection, investigators found no evidence of mechanical damage or malfunctions that could have caused the engine to fail.

Probable cause

The cause of the engine failure could not be determined.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2008-07-02 Zlin Z526M accident near Łososina Dolna (EPNL), PL?

A Zlin Z526M aircraft experienced an engine failure shortly after takeoff, resulting in an uncontrolled landing on a public road near the airfield.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2008-07-02 involved a Zlin Z526M, at Łososina Dolna (EPNL), PL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The cause of the engine failure could not be determined.

Investigation report by the Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accidents Investigation (PKBWL). Original record: https://pkbwl.gov.pl/raporty/2008-0409/. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the Panstwowa Komisja Badania Wypadkow Lotniczych (PKBWL), Poland.

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