What happened
On February 7, 2020, a Tecnam P20 and 06T, registration SP-FPL, was scheduled to perform a photogrammetric flight. Prior to departure, the pilot conducted a pre-flight inspection, noting an oil level of approximately 2.5 liters on the dipstick. Engine tests performed during the pre-flight phase showed no abnormalities.
The aircraft departed from Rzeszów–Jasionka Airport (EPRZ) at 16:58 UTC. Shortly after takeoff, while maintaining an altitude between 1,100 and 1,200 feet, the pilot noticed vibrations originating from the left engine, although onboard instruments did not initially indicate any malfunctions. The vibrations ceased briefly, but a few minutes later, the pilot observed an increase in oil pressure and an increase in the propeller RPM of the left engine. Recognizing the developing situation, the pilot decided to terminate the flight and return to the departure airfield. The aircraft landed safely at 17:09 UTC with no injuries or damage.
The investigation
Following the landing, a physical inspection of the aircraft was conducted. Investigators found traces of oil on the underside of the left engine nacelle. A subsequent check of the oil level revealed a significant loss, as the dipstick showed no measurable oil remaining. Furthermore, the inspection identified a lack of compression in one of the cylinders of the left engine.