What happened
On August 14, 2009, a PZL-104 Wilga was engaged in a glider towing operation near Świdnik. Shortly after takeoff, while flying at an altitude of approximately 50 meters, the aircraft's engine failed. The glider pilot, realizing the situation, successfully released from the towline, performed a 180-degree turn, and returned to the airfield to land safely.
Following the engine failure, the pilot of the PZL-104 Wilga attempted an emergency landing in a nearby area containing allotment gardens. Upon touchdown, the aircraft overturned. The pilot sustained a broken right leg during the accident.
The investigation
The PKBWL conducted a technical examination of the aircraft's engine and fuel system. Specialized inspections were performed by external facilities to evaluate the operational integrity of key components. Specifically, an expert analysis was conducted at WSK Kalisz regarding the fuel pump, the carburetor, and the R-2 propeller governor. Additionally, the AI-14RA engine underwent a detailed technical examination at the AEROPLAN facility in Wrocław.
Findings
Technical inspections of the fuel pump, carburetor, and propeller governor revealed no operational irregularities. Furthermore, the examination of the AI-14RA engine found no malfunctions or defects. Ultimately, the investigation could not determine the cause of the engine failure, as no technical irregularities capable of causing the engine to stall were identified.