What happened
On July 15, 2023, a Cessna 206 (Soloy), registration F-HGAZ, was conducting skydiving operations at the Tuzla aerodrome in Constanța County. At approximately 17:40 local time, the aircraft departed from runway 22 carrying six skydivers, climbing toward a target altitude of FL 130.
During the climb, at an altitude of roughly 1,155 feet, the pilot observed an "oil chip detector" warning. To address this potential engine issue, the pilot aborted the jump mission and initiated an immediate return to the aerodrome. The aircraft performed a standard pattern consisting of two turns, followed by three and four linked turns while descending.
During the final approach, the aircraft maintained a low forward airspeed but experienced a high rate of descent. The initial touchdown on the runway was heavy, accompanied by a speed limit excursion. Upon the subsequent contact with the runway, the nose landing gear collapsed, causing structural deformation to the airframe. The aircraft traveled approximately 100 meters along the right edge of runway 22 before coming to a halt.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of maneuvers following the engine warning and the mechanical failure of the landing gear. Authorities examined the engine control elements, which have undergone technical expertise. The analysis of these components is currently ongoing to determine if the engine warning or the flight profile contributed to the heavy landing.
Findings
- The pilot aborted the mission due to an oil chip detector warning.
- The aircraft performed a high-rate descent during the final approach phase.
- The landing was characterized by low forward velocity and a heavy vertical impact.
- The primary cause of the structural damage was the collapse of the nose landing gear following the heavy touchdown.