History of the Flight
On 28 June 2003, a Cessna 152F, registration G-BIOM, departed from Santa Cruz aerodrome (Torres Vedras) at approximately 10:20 UTC for a VFR flight to Montargil. The aircraft carried a pilot and one passenger. After completing the outbound leg, the flight returned to Santa Cruz. At 11:52, while at 1,000 feet altitude and in visual contact with the aerodrome, the pilot contacted the airport traffic service to obtain landing information. Shortly thereafter, the engine began to malfunction, with engine speed dropping 1,000 to 1,500 RPM below normal cruise values. Unable to maintain altitude or restore normal engine operation, the pilot established a continuous descent and searched for a suitable field for an emergency landing. He informed Santa Cruz of the situation and his decision. Choosing an agricultural field that appeared clear from the air, the pilot touched down normally in the field near Casal da Popa, Paradas, approximately 5 km northeast of the aerodrome. After rolling about 20 meters, the nose wheel struck a shallow drainage ditch concealed by vegetation, causing the nose gear to collapse. The aircraft nosed over, coming to rest inverted on its upper wing, cabin, and engine, with the tail elevated. The pilot had shut off fuel, magnetos, and battery, preventing any fire despite fuel spillage.
Injuries and Damage
Both occupants, wearing fastened seat belts, exited the aircraft unaided and were uninjured. The aircraft sustained significant damage to the propeller, engine cowlings, landing gear, cabin structure and covering, vertical stabilizer, and left wing. No third-party damage occurred.
Probable Cause
The investigation determined the primary cause to be loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. Contributory factors included deficiencies in the engine maintenance program and the quality of fuel used.