Summary
On 1 July 2025, an Aero AT-3 R100, registration SP-GDW, suffered an engine shutdown while approaching Kraków Pobiednik (EPKP). The pilot, holding a PPL(A) license and undergoing CPL(A) training, was flying from Warsaw Babice (EPBC). The engine stopped during the approach; attempts to restart it failed. The pilot performed a landing on the airport without further consequences. Post-landing fuel inspection revealed one tank empty and the other containing approximately 12 liters of fuel.
Event Details
The flight was conducted as part of a training syllabus for the CPL(A) license. The aircraft was an Aero AT-3 R100. During the final approach to EPKP, the engine unexpectedly ceased operation. The pilot executed an unsuccessful in-flight restart. Sufficient altitude remained to complete a landing on the runway. No injuries or damage were reported. A subsequent fuel check indicated that the tank feeding the engine was empty, while the other tank held about 12 liters.
Probable Cause
The engine shutdown resulted from fuel exhaustion in the tank supplying the engine, which led to air in the fuel system and prevented in-flight restart. Contributing factors included improper fuel management: the pilot did not monitor fuel consumption or switch the fuel selector between tanks during the cross-country flight. Additionally, the aircraft was not refueled before takeoff, contrary to the operator's procedures.
Safety Actions
In response, the operator implemented several corrective measures:
- The pilot received additional training on flight planning and fuel management.
- Internal procedures were revised to detail pre-flight fuel checks and guidance on tank switching and fuel monitoring.
- Instructors were directed to provide extra training on pre-flight preparation, including proper walk-around inspections, and in-flight fuel management.
- Unscheduled maintenance was performed on the aircraft's fuel system, including inspection, servicing, and recalibration of fuel gauges.
No further safety recommendations were issued by the investigation commission.