Incident Overview
On 9 June 2021, a Cessna 152 aircraft, registration SP-DCM, experienced an engine power loss while on a flight between several airfields in Poland. The incident occurred near Daleszyce (coordinates 50°48′43″N 20°47′10″E) during a climb phase. The pilot executed a forced landing in unprepared terrain without damage to the aircraft or injury to the pilot.
Sequence of Events
The pilot had departed on a route from EPLR to EPKA, then to EPML, and back to EPLR. After performing a touch-and-go landing at EPKA, the pilot noticed a slight decrease in engine power during the subsequent climb. Following a left turn toward the DELTA waypoint, the engine resumed normal operation temporarily. However, during the climb just before reaching DELTA, at approximately 2,500 feet, the engine began to run roughly and lost power, though it continued to operate. The aircraft entered an unintended descent, and throttle adjustments produced no increase in RPM. The pilot therefore decided to land in a field. Shortly before touchdown, the engine was shut down, and the landing was uneventful. After exiting the aircraft, the pilot inspected it and found no damage, then notified the relevant services.
Cause
The investigation determined that the incident was caused by a failure of the MA-3PA carburetor. The carburetor, still under warranty, was returned to the manufacturer and replaced with a new unit. The user did not receive feedback from the manufacturer regarding the failure.
Contributing Factors
No contributing factors were identified by the investigation.
Safety Recommendations
No safety recommendations were formulated by the commission or the investigating entity.