Engine vibration during training flight leads to emergency landi…

Engine vibration during training flight leads to emergency landing

Casualties unknown • TMA EPRZ, PL

A Socata TB-9 Tampico experienced severe engine vibrations during an ATPL training flight, forcing the crew to declare an emergency and land at their home base.

What happened

On September 15, 2015, a Socata TB-9 Tampico, registration SP-TUN, was conducting a VFR training flight for an ATPL(A) license. The crew, consisting of a student pilot and an instructor, had been in the air for approximately two hours when they began experiencing intense engine vibrations.

Upon detecting the vibration, the crew declared a PAN PAN emergency to the Warsaw (EPRZ) Tower controller and requested permission to land at their base airport, EPRJ. The aircraft landed safely at EPRJ at 11:24 UTC and was able to taxi to the parking apron without further incident.

The investigation

The investigation focused on the mechanical failure that triggered the vibration during the flight. The investigation established that the mechanical issue was localized to the engine's exhaust system.

Findings

The primary cause of the event was a stuck exhaust valve in cylinder number 1.

Safety action

The cylinder assembly for cylinder number 1, including the pushrods, has been replaced with new components.

Probable cause

The engine vibration was caused by the failure of the exhaust valve in the first cylinder, which became stuck during flight.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2015-09-15 Socata TB-9 "Tampico" accident near TMA EPRZ, PL?

A Socata TB-9 Tampico experienced severe engine vibrations during an ATPL training flight, forcing the crew to declare an emergency and land at their home base.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2015-09-15 involved a Socata TB-9 "Tampico", operated by Pilot samolotowy ATPL(A), at TMA EPRZ, PL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?