What happened
On July 14, 2015, a Cessna 2/10R, registration PR-LGP, was performing a visual flight rules (VFR) operation from Jacareacanga, PA, to Itaituba, PA. The aircraft was carrying a pilot and five passengers. Approximately 30 minutes into the flight, the engine failed suddenly.
The pilot attempted an emergency landing on an unregistered airstrip at Garimpo Girassol, located near the Transamazônica Highway. During the landing sequence, the pilot was unable to maintain control of the aircraft, causing it to overshoot the runway limits. Due to the elevation of the terrain at the end of the strip, the aircraft traveled approximately 150 meters before colliding with trees and the ground. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, but all six occupants escaped without injury.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the engine components and fuel system to determine the cause of the sudden power loss. The investigation focused on the maintenance history and the quality of the fuel used by the operator.
Investigators found that the aircraft's maintenance logs were outdated. Specifically, the 50-hour and 100-hour inspections had been performed by unauthorized independent mechanics rather than personnel approved by the Civil Aviation Authority. Furthermore, there were no official records of these recent inspections in the aircraft's logbooks at the time of the accident.
Upon inspecting the engine, investigators discovered debris within the fuel filter. A bench test of the mechanical fuel pump revealed irregular pressure and flow fluctuations. Disassembly of the pump revealed that it was contaminated with sand and silicone. This contamination had reached the vapor vent return section, clogging the calibrated vent hole.
Findings
- The mechanical fuel pump's calibrated vent hole was clogged by contaminants.
- The clogging caused internal pressures to equalize, creating a hydraulic lock that interrupted the fuel flow to the engine.
- The fuel system was contaminated with sand and silicone.
- The operator was using fuel sourced from non-homologated containers.
- Maintenance services were improper, as recent inspections were performed by unauthorized individuals.
- Maintenance logs for the airframe, engine, and propeller were not up to date.