What happened
On May 25, 2024, a Cessna 152, registration SP-WLD, was conducting a flight training mission as part of a PPL(A) training program. The flight, operated by an approved training organization, departed from Świdnik Airport (EPSL) at 00:02 UTC after receiving clearance from Lublin Tower. The flight objectives included practicing precautionary landings and navigational procedures using radio and satellite navigation.
At approximately 07:20 UTC, while en route, the instructor noticed irregular engine operation accompanied by a rise in oil temperature. Shortly thereafter, the engine began to run unevenly and lost power. The instructor immediately took control of the aircraft and initiated emergency procedures, selecting a long agricultural field near Kłodnica Dolna as a landing site. The instructor executed necessary engine shutdown procedures, including closing the fuel valve, pulling the mixture control, and turning off the magnetos. After notifying the student to secure safety belts and prepare the door, the instructor declared a MAYDAY via the Warsaw FIS frequency. The aircraft landed successfully using full flaps; there were no injuries to the crew and no damage to the aircraft was sustained, though an oil leak was observed following the landing.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical failure of the powerplant and the operational parameters of the engine's maintenance cycle. The inquiry examined the engine's condition and the compliance of the aircraft's operation with existing civil aviation guidelines regarding engine overhaul intervals.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was an engine failure resulting from a damaged engine block and a subsequent oil leak.
- The aircraft's time since overhaul (TSO) was 2,878.7 flight hours at the time of the event.
- The aircraft was being operated in accordance with the Civil Aviation Authority President's Guideline No. 3 regarding intermediate overhaul periods for piston engines.