What happened
On January 25, 2023, at approximately 20:40 UTC, a Cirrus SR22, registration PR-COL, departed from the Lages Aerodrome (SBLJ) in Santa Catarina, Brazil, for a local flight. The aircraft was carrying a pilot and one passenger. Shortly after takeoff, the pilot noticed a significant loss of engine power. While attempting to execute an emergency return to the runway, the pilot determined that a successful landing was not possible and activated the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS). The aircraft subsequently landed in a grassy area, resulting in substantial damage to the airframe. Both occupants survived the occurrence without injuries.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft's fuel system and engine components following the accident. The investigation focused on the mechanical and electrical fuel pumps. Testing of the mechanical pump revealed a fuel leak and a flow rate of 196 PPH, which exceeded the manufacturer's limit of 150-160 PPH at 2,700 RPM. Internal inspection of the mechanical pump showed a damaged shaft seal and worn, deformed rubber components. Additionally, the electrical fuel pump was found to be inoperative due to a failure in its electronic control board, although the electric motor itself was functional. Data retrieved from the aircraft's Avidyne Entegra EX5000C Multi Function Display confirmed a sharp drop in fuel flow parameters immediately following takeoff.
Furthermore, the investigation noted that while the engine's manufacturer recommended an overhaul every 12 years or 2,000 hours, the engine in PR-COL had exceeded the 12-year threshold without undergoing a major overhaul. Although Brazilian regulations at the time did not strictly mandate this overhaul for aircraft operating under RBAC 91, the investigation highlighted the lack of a trend monitoring program to track engine health.
Findings
- The simultaneous failure of both the mechanical and electrical fuel pumps caused the engine power loss.
- The mechanical fuel pump exhibited internal wear and leakage.
- The electrical fuel pump was inoperable due to an electronic component failure.
- The lack of an engine trend monitoring program prevented the early detection of component degradation.
- The engine had exceeded the manufacturer's recommended 12-year interval for overhaul.