What happened
On 21 June 2014, a Cessna TU206G Stationair 6, registration G-SKYE, was conducting aerial work for parachute operations near Abbeyshrule, Co. Longford. During the initial climb following takeoff from Abbeyshrule airfield, the pilot experienced a sudden mechanical disturbance described as a "knock," followed by the engine running roughly.
After leveling the aircraft at 400 feet, the pilot observed that despite adjusting the fuel mixture and activating the fuel boost pump, the engine performance continued to deteriorate. Realizing the aircraft could not maintain flight, the pilot initiated a forced landing in a nearby field. During the approach, the pilot had to adjust the landing path to avoid livestock. The aircraft touched down, bounced, and subsequently experienced a nose landing gear collapse. The aircraft also made contact with the ground with its left wingtip, resulting in substantial damage to the airframe, including the engine bulkhead and propeller blades.
The investigation
The AAIU investigation focused on the mechanical failure and the circumstances of the landing. Investigators examined the aircraft's engine and found that the propeller and engine could be rotated relatively easily for a short period before resistance increased. A preliminary examination of the engine cylinders suggested a structural failure within the engine components.
Regarding the occupants, there were five people on board: the pilot and four skydivers (two tandem pairs). While no one sustained serious injuries at the scene, two charity jumpers were treated at a local hospital for minor issues, and one tandem master sustained a head bruise after striking the control column during the landing. The investigation also noted that the aircraft's cockpit configuration had been modified for parachute operations, with a wooden structure installed to block the right-hand footwell.
Findings
- The primary cause of the loss of engine power was a failure of the crankshaft.
- The aircraft sustained significant damage to the nose area, engine bulkhead, and left wingtip due to the gear collapse and subsequent ground contact.
- The pilot successfully managed the emergency by selecting an appropriate landing site and avoiding obstacles such as trees and livestock.