What happened
On January 6, 2022, a Tecnam P2008 JC, registration SP-SCS, departed from Chojna airfield for a training flight. During the flight, the crew performed two simulated emergency landings in unprepared terrain, descending to altitudes of approximately 2000 ft and 1100 ft respectively.
Following the second simulation, the crew applied maximum throttle to initiate a climb. However, the engine RPM failed to increase, peaking at only 1800 RPM. The instructor took control of the aircraft and attempted several troubleshooting steps, including adjusting the throttle, toggling the carburetor heat, and switching the fuel selector to the secondary tank. Instead of recovering, the engine RPM dropped further to approximately 1200 RPM. Unable to maintain level flight, the instructor declared a MAYDAY and executed an emergency landing in a field near Lubczyna. There were no injuries or damage to the aircraft following the landing.
The investigation
The PKBWL examined the engine performance and the sequence of cockpit actions. The investigation confirmed that the crew had operated the throttle at idle during the descents. While the crew had engaged the carburetor heat during the descents, the investigation focused on the timing of the heat application relative to the throttle position. Meteorological analysis also indicated that atmospheric conditions during the flight were highly conducive to carburetor icing.
Findings
- The probable cause of the power loss was carburetor icing.
- Meteorological conditions during the flight were favorable for the formation of ice in the carburetor.
- A contributing factor was the engine operation at idle during descents; specifically, the investigation noted that for the carburetor heat system to function effectively when the throttle is at idle, the heat must be engaged before the throttle is moved to the idle position, rather than after.
Safety action
- The investigating entity implemented preventive measures, including additional theoretical training for flight personnel regarding the specifics of flying in autumn and winter conditions, recognizing the symptoms of carburetor icing, and the appropriate corrective actions to take.