Synopsis
On 6 October 2018, a Cessna 182L (registration EI-CDP) was conducting a parachute operations flight from Clonbullogue Airfield (EICL), County Offaly, Ireland. During the climb, the pilot noted unusual engine vibrations and a decrease in power, preventing further ascent. The decision was made to return to the airfield. While positioning for landing, the engine lost all power. The pilot executed an emergency landing on Runway 09, during which the aircraft skidded sideways on the grass runway and came to rest on a tarmac area beyond the runway end. The pilot and four skydivers evacuated without injury. The aircraft sustained substantial engine damage, and there was no fire.
History of the Flight
The flight was the seventeenth of eighteen scheduled parachute operations that day. After takeoff from Runway 27, the climb proceeded normally until reaching approximately 3,500 feet, when the pilot felt engine vibrations and a loss of power. A broadcast was made on the airfield frequency indicating an engine failure and intention to return. Initially, an approach to Runway 27 was attempted, but the low setting sun impaired visibility. With some power remaining, the pilot opted to proceed to Runway 09, the reciprocal runway. Passing north of the airfield at about 450 feet above ground level, the engine failed completely. Aware of trees on the approach path, the pilot performed a 180-degree left turn to align with Runway 09; the stall warning horn sounded intermittently during the turn. The aircraft crossed the centerline and overshot the runway, so the pilot landed as soon as possible, applying full left rudder and aileron to skid sideways. The aircraft departed the grass surface onto a tarmac area, stopping approximately 7 meters from the eastern boundary hedge and fence on a heading of 020 degrees magnetic.
Airfield Information
Clonbullogue Airfield (EICL) is located in County Offaly at an elevation of 240 feet AMSL. It has a single grass runway, 09/27, measuring 770 meters in length and 18 meters in width. The airfield also includes an aircraft hangar, fuel farm, and clubhouse.
Injuries to Persons
No injuries were reported to the Investigation.
Damage to Aircraft
Airframe Damage
The right main landing gear wheel hub was broken along its outer circumference. The tie-down point under the tail was distorted to the left.
Engine Damage
The engine sustained significant damage, with a hole visible in the crankcase adjacent to the No. 3 cylinder. The engine was removed for further investigation under AAIU supervision.
Other Damage
Localised scarring to the grass runway surface along the final 125 meters of Runway 09 was consistent with the aircraft's sideways skid and tail strike. Minor damage occurred to the tarmac surface beyond the runway end.
Personnel Information
The pilot held a European Union Commercial Pilot Licence (A) issued by the Portuguese Civil Aviation Authority (ANAC), with a Single Engine Piston rating valid until 31 December 2018, and a Class 1 Medical Certificate valid until 31 October 2019. Total flying experience was 890 hours, with 200 hours on type. In the last 90 days, the pilot had flown 150 hours; in the last 28 days, 58 hours; and in the last 24 hours, 5 hours 35 minutes.
Investigation
The investigation was carried out by the Air Accident Investigation Unit (AAIU) Ireland. The aircraft operator notified the AAIU. The pilot submitted an AAIU Report Form, and a field investigation was conducted.