What happened
On October 13, 2019, a Cumulus JR paramotor was conducting passenger flights near Dominowo, Poland. After two successful flights, the pilot commenced a third flight with a passenger. The climb phase proceeded normally until the aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 150 meters. At this point, the engine began to run unevenly before failing completely.
The pilot attempted to manage the descent and selected a meadow adjacent to a cultivated field as an emergency landing site. However, due to insufficient altitude, the pilot was forced to land within the field, approximately two meters short of the intended meadow. During the landing, the front wheel struck a furrow in the soil, causing the trike to nose over.
The pilot sustained serious injuries, while the passenger remained uninjured. Emergency services, including an air ambulance, responded to the scene.
The investigation
The PKBWL examined the aircraft and the engine components following the accident. The investigation focused on the engine''s performance and the condition of the fuel system. During the inspection of the ROTAX 503 engine, investigators examined the fuel tank, carburetor, and fuel filter.
While the wing and lines were found to be in good condition, the fuel filter was found to be heavily contaminated. Investigators recovered several pieces of black rubber from the filter, which appeared to have shrunk since being in the fuel. Additionally, fragments of a black rubber gasket were discovered inside the fuel tank.