Accident Details
On 21 January 2020, at 17:41 local time, a female crew consisting of a student pilot and an instructor took off in an Aero AT-3R100 (registration SP-RWC) for a night training flight. During the flight, the left fuel tank level indicator showed a rapid decrease while the right tank level remained unchanged. After approximately 32 minutes, the crew decided to return to the departure airport. At about 37 minutes into the flight, they observed that the fuel cap on the right wing was missing. The left fuel tank continued to deplete, and after 51 minutes, the engine stopped. Attempts to restart the engine in flight were unsuccessful. The crew notified FIS Olsztyn by radio of the situation and executed a forced landing in unprepared terrain after 54 minutes. The landing occurred in a wooded area, resulting in the destruction of the aircraft. The crew did not suffer serious injuries and evacuated the aircraft unassisted, subsequently reporting the accident to rescue services and the head of the training organization.
Investigation Findings
The investigation was conducted by the Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accidents Investigation (PKBWL). The probable cause was determined to be improper closure of the fuel cap on the right wing tank, leading to its loss, rapid fuel loss during flight, and engine stoppage without the possibility of restart.
Contributing factors included:
- A change in the order of pre-flight inspection tasks as described in Section 4, paragraph 4.4.2 of the Flight Manual.
- Poor lighting conditions during aircraft preparation for the night flight.
- Inconsistency between the descriptions of pre-flight inspection tasks in Section 4, paragraph 4.4.2, subparagraphs (3)(4) and (2) and (7) of the Flight Manual and the actual condition.
Aircraft and Crew Information
The aircraft was an Aero AT-3R100, registration SP-RWC, operated by ATO Runway, sp. z o.o. The crew consisted of a student pilot and an instructor. Both were female. The aircraft was destroyed in the accident, but no other property damage was reported.
Safety Recommendations
The PKBWL issued safety recommendations to the aircraft manufacturer regarding the pre-flight inspection procedures.