What happened
On 20 February 2020, a Piper PA-60-602P, registration EC-HRJ, was performing a private VFR flight from Sabadell Airport to Pamplona Airport. During the flight, the aircraft experienced a sudden change in course and a rapid decrease in ground speed. The pilot initially reported a potential issue with the turbocharger to air traffic control, and later confirmed that the aircraft had lost an engine.
Despite the loss of power, the pilot continued the descent toward Pamplona. While on final approach to runway 33, the aircraft began to roll to the right and impacted the ground. The impact severed a power line and caused the aircraft to strike a fence and a stationary vehicle. A post-impact fire completely destroyed the aircraft, and the pilot, the sole occupant, was killed.
The investigation
The CIAIAC investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance history, engine condition, and the flight trajectory. Records showed that the aircraft had undergone recent maintenance to address power issues, including adjustments to the automatic turbocharger system controllers and lubrication of the wastegates in both engines just days before the accident.
Investigators analyzed radar data, which showed the aircraft's ground speed dropping from 197 knots to approximately 120-140 knots following the initial engine issue. The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's configuration at the time of impact, noting that the landing gear had not been extended and the flaps were set to 20 degrees.
Findings
- The right engine's wastegates were found to be fully closed, while the left engine's wastegates were slightly open.
- The pilot did not feather the propeller on the right engine following the power loss.
- The aircraft was flying with asymmetrical power during the final approach.
- The impact and subsequent fire resulted in one fatality.