What happened
On April 21, 2013, a Piper PA-28R-200, registration PT-ICH, was performing a private transport flight from Matupá to Sinop, Mato Grosso. The aircraft was carrying a pilot and two passengers.
During the approach to Sinop Airport (SWSI), with the landing gear extended and locked, the engine lost power. The pilot attempted emergency procedures, including activating the fuel pump and advancing all throttles. Although the engine momentarily regained power, it failed again shortly after. The pilot subsequently executed engine shutdown procedures and performed a forced landing in a cornfield adjacent to the airport. Despite the substantial damage to the aircraft, the pilot and both passengers were uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft's fuel system following the engine failure. Traces of water were discovered within the fuel distributor valve, the fuel injector, the low-pressure fuel filter, and the left fuel tank.
Further inspection revealed that the sealing ring of the left wing fuel tank filler cap had cracks. These cracks allowed rainwater to enter the fuel system. The investigation noted that the Piper Aircraft Corporation maintenance manual requires inspecting fuel tanks and lines for leaks and water during 100-hour inspections. Evidence suggested that this specific check may not have been adequately performed during the most recent 100-hour inspection conducted by the maintenance facility.
Findings
- The primary contributing factor was improper aircraft maintenance.
- A cracked sealing ring on the left fuel tank filler cap allowed water to contaminate the fuel system.
- Water was present in the fuel distributor, injector, and low-pressure filter.