Engine Failure in Cirrus SR20 Leads to Parachute Deployment Near Itu

Casualties unknown • ITU, SP, BR

A Cirrus SR20 experienced an in-flight engine failure due to fuel flow obstruction, resulting in a successful emergency parachute deployment in Brazil.

What happened

On March 24, 2012, a Cirrus SR20, registration PP-CIE, departed from Jundia/SP (SBJD) for a local flight involving an overflight of Itu, SP. The aircraft was carrying a pilot and one passenger. While cruising at 4,000 feet, the pilot noticed a drop in the fuel flow indication. Despite following emergency procedures, including activating the electric fuel pump and switching tanks, the engine failed.

Following the engine failure, the pilot established a glide at 90 knots. After losing 500 feet of altitude, the pilot activated the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS). The aircraft landed in a pasture at Fazenda Cajuru, near Itu, SP. The aircraft sustained light damage, and both occupants were uninjured.

The investigation

CENIPA investigators examined the fuel system of the PP-CIE and discovered that the fuel control unit was obstructed by a foreign object measuring approximately 5 mm. Laboratory analysis conducted by the Institute of Aeronautics and Space (IAE) determined that this fragment was made of a material different from the internal lining of the aircraft's fuel hoses.

While the exact origin of the debris could not be identified, investigators noted that the mechanical fuel pump had been replaced during maintenance on March 9, 2012, just weeks before the accident. The investigation considered it highly probable that the contaminant was introduced during a maintenance procedure.

Findings

  • The engine failure was caused by the obstruction of the fuel control unit by a foreign object.
  • The foreign object was not a component of the aircraft's existing fuel hoses.
  • Maintenance of the aircraft was identified as the contributing factor, specifically the potential introduction of debris during recent service.

Safety action

It is recommended that the National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) disseminate the lessons learned from this investigation to alert operators and maintenance organizations regarding the critical importance of verifying the quality and cleanliness of maintenance services performed on aircraft.

Probable cause

The engine failure was caused by a foreign object obstructing the fuel control unit, likely introduced during a recent maintenance procedure.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2012-03-24 aircraft accident near ITU, SP, BR?

A Cirrus SR20 experienced an in-flight engine failure due to fuel flow obstruction, resulting in a successful emergency parachute deployment in Brazil.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2012-03-24 involved a aircraft, registration PPCIE, at ITU, SP, BR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine failure was caused by a foreign object obstructing the fuel control unit, likely introduced during a recent maintenance procedure.

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