What happened
On August 8, 2016, a PIPER PA-34-220T, registration EC-EPX, was performing a private flight from Son Bonet Airport to San Luis Aerodrome. The flight, operated by a pilot instructor, included three passengers. After a successful morning flight to Menorca, the crew began the return leg at 17:25 local time.
While descending through approximately 1,500 feet near Alcudia Bay, the right engine failed. The pilot attempted to restart the engine without success. Due to the inability to maintain flight altitude, the pilot executed an emergency landing in a field at the finca del Virrey, near the road connecting Inca and Sella. The aircraft sustained significant damage, but all 4 occupants escaped without injury.
The investigation
The CIAIAC investigation focused on the cause of the engine failure and the subsequent loss of altitude. Investigators examined the aircraft's fuel system and maintenance records. While some maintenance deficiencies were noted, they were not determined to be the cause of the engine shutdown.
Testing revealed that the fuel quantity indicator for the right wing was providing inaccurate readings. Furthermore, the investigation found that the pilot could not accurately verify fuel levels during the pre-flight inspection because the aircraft was not equipped with fuel dipsticks. The investigation also analyzed the aerodynamic performance of the aircraft with a single engine operating and a non-feathered propeller.