What happened
On January 21, 2014, a Cessna 150J, registration PT-AVC, was conducting a flight instruction mission involving touch-and-go maneuvers at the Teruel Aerodrome in Campo Grande, MS. The flight crew consisted of an instructor and a student.
During a go-around following a landing attempt, the aircraft experienced a loss of engine power. The instructor took control of the aircraft and attempted an emergency landing on the right side of the runway extension. During the descent, the aircraft struck a fence before making a heavy impact with the ground, causing the aircraft to nose over. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the engine, propeller assembly, and landing gear.
The investigation
The investigation examined the mechanical state of the aircraft and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. Maintenance records, including the airworthiness certificate and logs for the airframe, engine, and propeller, were found to be up to date. At the time of the incident, 75 liters of fuel remained in the tanks.
Investigators and maintenance technicians performed tests on the engine but were unable to identify any mechanical failure that would justify the power loss. Meteorological reports and witness statements confirmed that rain was present in the area during the occurrence, a condition known to contribute to carburetor icing.
Findings
- The pilot failed to perform the required emergency checklist procedures following the power loss.
- Specifically, the pilot did not activate the carburetor heat, which is a critical step in addressing potential icing issues.
- Pilot oversight regarding emergency checklists was identified as a contributing factor.