What happened
On May 20, 2018, a CASA 1131-E Bücker, registration EC-DAL, was performing local flight maneuvers consisting of takeoffs and landings at the Requena aerodrome in Valencia. Following a takeoff from runway 12, the aircraft began a climb, initially following another aircraft to maintain safe separation. During the climb, the engine began to lose power and eventually stopped completely at an altitude of approximately 250 to 300 feet.
The pilot attempted to restart the engine by using the manual fuel pump, but was unsuccessful. Realizing there was insufficient altitude to return to the aerodrome, the pilot identified a nearby field for an emergency landing. This field was located perpendicular to the aircraft's flight path. As the pilot attempted a 90-degree turn to align with the field, the aircraft lost airspeed and entered a stall, impacting the ground in a steep, near-vertical nose-down attitude.
The impact resulted in one serious injury and one minor injury. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, including structural deformation of the wings and fuselage, and the engine was displaced from its mounts.
The investigation
The CIAIAC investigation focused on the engine failure and the subsequent emergency maneuvers. Investigators examined the engine, fuel system, and cockpit controls. The investigation confirmed that the engine stopped due to a lack of fuel supply. While the fuel selector valve was found in an intermediate position between 'open' and 'closed,' investigators could not definitively determine if this was caused by the impact or a prior movement.
Technical inspections of the fuel pump, carburetor, and fuel filter showed no obstructions or mechanical failures. The engine components, including the magnetos and spark plugs, were found to be in good working order. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's emergency management, specifically the decision-making process during the forced landing attempt.