What happened
On September 22, 2020, a pilot holding a PPL(A) license arrived at the Flight Training Center at Rzeszów-Jasionka Airport (EPRZ) to conduct a training flight. The aircraft, a Tecnam P-2008-JC with registration SP-WBI, had been released for flight by the maintenance organization following scheduled servicing.
After completing pre-flight inspections and refueling, the pilot and instructor departed from runway 27. During the climb, while performing a right-hand pattern, the pilot transitioned to a northern heading toward point "MIKE". At an altitude of 2,500 ft ALT, the pilot observed a flashing warning light and a drop in oil pressure below 12 PSI. The pilot immediately aborted the climb and initiated a left turn, notifying Rzeszów Tower of the deteriorating situation as oil pressure plummeted to 3 PSI.
Shortly thereafter, the pilot heard engine knocking and observed smoke emanating from the engine cowling, followed by a total engine failure. The pilot declared a MAYDAY, shut off the fuel valve, and disconnected the electrical power before performing an emergency landing in a nearby field near Wysoka Głogowska. The aircraft sustained no damage during the landing, and the pilot suffered no injuries.
The investigation
Following the incident, the PKBWL oversaw the collection and preservation of fuel samples for analysis. The aircraft's wings were removed, and the airframe was moved to a hangar for further examination. An inspection of the engine revealed that the valve cover on cylinder number 1 had become loose, which caused an oil leak. This loss of lubrication resulted in the seizure of the piston in cylinder number 1, ultimately leading to the engine shutdown. No other engine components were found to be damaged.
Findings
- The engine failure was caused by a piston seizure in cylinder number 1.
- The seizure was a direct result of an oil leak caused by a loose valve cover.
- The specific reason why the valve cover became loose was not determined.