What happened
On 14 July 2020, a Tecnam P2006T, registration SP-KEY, was conducting multi-engine piston (MEP(L)) training at Bydgoszcz Aerodrome (EPBY). The flight crew, consisting of a flight instructor and a student pilot, had completed training exercises in a nearby flight zone and were returning to the aerodrome.
Upon approaching runway 08, the instructor requested a low pass rather than a standard landing. The aircraft performed the low pass in a landing configuration, with the landing gear extended and flaps set to 20 degrees. Witnesses and tower recordings indicated the aircraft was flying at a low speed and a high angle of attack. After passing the end of the runway, the aircraft attempted a right turn while in a slight climb. During this maneuver, the aircraft stalled, rolled sharply to the right, and struck the ground. The impact was followed by a fire that destroyed the aircraft. Both occupants sustained fatal injuries.
The investigation
The PKBWL investigation focused on the aircraft's configuration and engine status during the maneuver. Investigators determined that the right engine was inoperative because the right fuel valve had been closed, though the propeller was windmilling rather than feathered. The left engine remained operational until the impact.
The investigation also reviewed the crew's training records and the aircraft's maintenance history. While the aircraft was found to be airworthy and properly maintained, the investigation noted that the instructor's communication with the tower during the approach was unclear. Furthermore, the investigation examined the instructor's experience level regarding MEP(L) training and the specific procedures used during the go-around.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was an airplane stall during the performance of a go-around procedure.
- The go-around was performed with the right engine inoperative and its propeller in a windmilling state.
- The aircraft was in a high-drag configuration, with the landing gear extended and flaps set to 20 degrees, making a safe climb virtually impossible under the circumstances.
- The instructor had limited experience specifically in conducting MEP(L) training.
- The aircraft was airworthy and all maintenance documentation was in order.