Casualties unknown

2016-05-29: Cessna 152 — Warszawa Modlin (EPMO), PL

Warszawa Modlin (EPMO), PL

On May 29, 2016, a Cessna 152 was involved in an aviation accident near Warszawa Modlin (EPMO), PL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: spark plug fouling. This summary draws on records from the Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accidents Investigation (PKBWL); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accidents Investigation (PKBWL)Primary reportUpdated 1785092869Data APIEditorial standards

A Cessna 152 experienced rpm fluctuations after takeoff from Warsaw-Modlin Airport on 29 May 2016. The pilot executed a straight-in landing. Inspection revealed fouled spark plugs, which were cleaned, and the aircraft returned to service.

Overview

On 29 May 2016, a Cessna 152 operating at Warsaw-Modlin Airport (EPMO) experienced an incident shortly after departure. The pilot reported fluctuations in engine RPM and initiated a straight-in landing back at the departure airport. The aircraft landed without further issues.

Incident Details

After takeoff from runway DS08, the pilot observed abnormal RPM indications. Deciding to return immediately, the pilot performed a straight-in approach and landed without incident. Following the landing, operations with the aircraft were suspended pending a mechanic's inspection.

Investigation Findings

The mechanic examined the aircraft and found evidence of spark plug fouling. The spark plugs were cleaned, and three successive engine run-ups were conducted. No anomalies were detected during the tests, and the aircraft was returned to service.

The investigation determined that the cause of the RPM fluctuation was contamination of the spark plugs. No other contributing factors were identified. The relevant aviation authority did not issue any safety recommendations or preventive actions.

Conclusion

The incident was attributed solely to spark plug fouling, which was resolved by cleaning. The aircraft resumed normal operations after verification of engine performance.

Probable cause

spark plug fouling

Investigation report by the Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accidents Investigation (PKBWL). Original record: https://pkbwl.gov.pl/raporty/2016-1111/. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the Panstwowa Komisja Badania Wypadkow Lotniczych (PKBWL), Poland.