Engine Governor Failure Leads to Emergency Landing of Cessna TU206G

Casualties unknown • Rudno / Wołów, PL

A turboprop engine failure caused a sudden loss of power and propeller pitch malfunction during a return flight near Chełm, resulting in an emergency field landing.

What happened

On October 21, 2023, a Cessna TU206G, registration SP-ASG, was performing skydiving operations at Leszno Airport (EPLS) after arriving from Lubin Airport (EPLU). Following the completion of eight jumps, the pilot departed Leszno at approximately 17:10 LMT for the return flight to Lubin.

While cruising at an altitude of approximately 2,500 ft AMSL near the Odra River, the aircraft experienced a sudden two-second surge in the propulsion unit. This was immediately followed by a red warning light indicating a drop in oil pressure within the propeller pitch control system. Consequently, the N1 turbine speed and engine torque began to decrease rapidly. Despite the pilot' essential attempts to increase power, the engine failed, and the propeller governor automatically transitioned the blades to the feathered position.

The pilot maintained aircraft airspeed and selected an emergency landing site in an open field, away from forests and buildings. The pilot notified FIS Poznań of the situation during the descent. The landing was completed successfully without any damage to the aircraft and with no injuries to the pilot.

The investigation

The investigation focused on the mechanical failure of the propulsion system. Maintenance personnel from the operating organization inspected the aircraft upon arrival at the scene and identified a malfunction in the engine's propeller governor (PT Governor). The faulty component was subsequently sent to a certified repair facility, where an internal failure was confirmed.

Probable cause

The primary cause of the incident was a mechanical failure within the Allison 250-C20S engine propeller governor.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2023-10-21 Cessna, 206 accident near Rudno / Wołów, PL?

A turboprop engine failure caused a sudden loss of power and propeller pitch malfunction during a return flight near Chełm, resulting in an emergency field landing.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2023-10-21 involved a Cessna, 206, registration SP-ASG, operated by Normal Piotr Jafernik, at Rudno / Wołów, PL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The primary cause of the incident was a mechanical failure within the Allison 250-C20S engine propeller governor.

Investigation report by the Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accidents Investigation (PKBWL). Original record: https://pkbwl.gov.pl/raporty/2023-0077/. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the Panstwowa Komisja Badania Wypadkow Lotniczych (PKBWL), Poland.

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