Incident Overview
On October 5, 2019, a Cessna 152 was conducting training flights from the grass strip at Świdnik airfield (EPSL), runway 06, as part of a PPL(A) syllabus. During the ninth circuit, while climbing at approximately 100 meters, the instructor pilot noticed the engine running unevenly. Observing that the aircraft's flight path was aligned with runway 07 of the nearby Lublin Airport (EPLB), the instructor decided to land there as a precaution.
Actions During the Incident
The instructor communicated his intentions by radio to the Lublin Tower controller. The landing was completed without further issues. After the rollout, the instructor requested taxi clearance to the main apron, where he shut down the engine under the supervision of the airport fire service. He informed emergency services that their assistance was not needed. Following a phone consultation with a mechanic from the aircraft's maintenance organization, the instructor taxied the aircraft to the hangar of the Świdnik Aeroclub.
Subsequent Inspection
On October 7, 2019, a licensed mechanic performed an engine inspection and discovered a cracked porcelain insulator on one of the spark plugs. After replacing the damaged spark plug, the engine operated normally, and the aircraft returned to service.
Preventive Actions
No preventive actions were taken by the investigating entity.
Commission Remarks
The Commission noted that several hours before the incident, the engine had undergone a 50-hour inspection, during which all spark plugs were tested on a test bench and found to be undamaged and functioning correctly.