What happened
On May 11, 2020, at approximately 12:00 UTC, a Diamond DA-42NG, registration SP-NRD, was performing a takeoff roll at the Nowe Miasto nad Pilicą aerodrome. As the pilot advanced both throttles forward to the maximum position, a significant discrepancy in engine performance was observed. While the right engine reached 100% power, the left engine reached only 70%, with the power increase on the left side proceeding at a much slower rate than the right.
Recognizing the asymmetric thrust, the pilot decided to abort the takeoff. The pilot notified the air traffic controller of the decision and successfully vacated the runway. The aircraft was subsequently removed from service pending a technical investigation into the cause of the power imbalance.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical performance of the engines during the takeoff roll. The inquiry examined the engine parameters and the internal components responsible for maintaining consistent boost pressure and engine output.
Findings
The investigation established that the primary cause of the incident was a malfunction of the turbocharger wastegate and the boost pressure actuator assembly on the left engine.