What happened
On 23 September 2021, a Partenavia, P68, registration F-HIRD, was conducting low-altitude environmental survey operations near Carnsore Point, Co. Wexford. The aircraft, carrying one pilot and three passengers, had been flying a series of pre-defined survey lines to record marine wildlife sightings.
During the 18th survey line, the pilot observed a sudden drop in the indicated fuel quantity, followed by the failure of the right engine. Within minutes, the fuel level in the right tank dropped to zero. The pilot attempted to restart the engine by adjusting the throttle, mixture, and propeller levers, but was unsuccessful. While attempting to return to Waterford Airport, the left engine also failed at an altitude of approximately 250 feet.
Unable to maintain flight, the pilot directed the aircraft toward the shoreline and performed a forced landing on a beach composed of loose shale. The impact caused the aircraft to pitch down heavily, resulting in significant structural damage to the forward cabin and cockpit. The pilot and one passenger sustained serious injuries, while the other two passengers were also injured. All occupants were evacuated from the wreckage.
The investigation
The AAIU examined the wreckage and analyzed various data sources, including flight path data from a Spider Tracks device. Investigators inspected both engines and found no evidence of active fuel leaks at the accident site. A subsequent test of the right engine in the UK showed that the engine started normally and achieved 164-172 BHP, though this was lower than the rated 200 BHP.
Regarding fuel levels, investigators found a total of 74 litres of fuel remaining in the tanks (approximately 42 litres in the right tank and 32 litres in the left tank). Laboratory testing confirmed the AVGAS met industry standards. The investigation also reviewed maintenance records, noting that the aircraft had undergone a 200-hour check recently, and noted a previous incident on 18 September 2021 where a fuel hose connection issue had caused an engine failure.