Summary
A preliminary report describes an accident involving a Tecnam P2008JC aircraft, registration SP-LFC, operated by PLL Lot S.A. / Lot Flight Academy. The accident occurred on 3 August 2016 at 07:44 local time at Piotrków Trybunalski Airport (EPPT), Poland. The flight was a training flight with a pilot-instructor and a student-pilot on board.
Flight Details
The crew planned to conduct circuit training. After completing pre-flight documentation, weather briefing, and task discussion, they prepared the aircraft. The student-pilot, under supervision, performed a pre-flight inspection, including checking fuel and oil levels. The fuel quantity was deemed sufficient, and oil was topped off despite being within limits. After boarding and completing the checklist, the engine was started. The aircraft taxied to the holding point where a high-power engine run-up was performed successfully. Takeoff was executed from runway 21 with electric fuel pump on, flaps in takeoff position, and elevator trim set to zero.
After climbing to about 300 feet above ground, the crew began the clearing sequence (retracting flaps, turning off the electric fuel pump, etc.). After completing one circuit and setting up for landing, they heard over the radio that a glider was preparing to depart parallel to the landing direction. The pilot-instructor requested the glider to hold. After landing, the crew initiated an immediate takeoff (convoy start).
Sequence of Events
During the climb after takeoff, the engine spontaneously reduced revolutions and began running unevenly, described by the pilot-instructor as "sputtering" and "coughing." The aircraft lost thrust. The pilot-instructor checked that the carburetor heat was off and the electric fuel pump was on, and tested the throttle response; the engine did not respond. He took control, and the student noted the engine became significantly quieter. The pilot-instructor turned right and attempted to level the flight, but the aircraft stalled and collided with the ground on airport property.
Injuries and Damage
The pilot-instructor sustained serious injuries. The student-pilot was uninjured. The aircraft was seriously damaged. After the accident, the student-pilot, on the instructor's command, switched off the electric fuel pump, the master switch, and closed the fuel valve. It was later discovered that the linkage between the fuel valve control knob and the valve itself had been severed during the crash; rotating the knob did not close the valve, which remained open.
Recommendations
The report did not issue any safety recommendations.