What happened
On July 15, 2022, a Cessna 414, registration SE-KUS, departed from Errachidia Moulay Ali Chérif Airport in Morocco, bound for Valencia, Spain. Approximately 30 minutes into the flight, the pilot noticed the oil temperature on the left engine had entered the red zone. Due to the high terrain in the area, the pilot determined that returning to the departure airport or reaching an alternative airfield was not feasible in the event of a total engine failure.
In response to the temperature increase, the pilot reduced power to both engines and prepared for an emergency landing on the Regional Road N°503. During the approach, the pilot reported seeing an oncoming vehicle, which prompted a maneuver to the left. This caused the aircraft to deviate from the roadway and strike a large pile of stones on the dirt shoulder. The impact caused the left main landing gear to collapse and led to a total loss of stability, with the aircraft coming to rest approximately 2/5 km from the road.
The investigation
The Moroccan investigation examined the wreckage, engine maintenance records, and the pilot's decision-making process. Investigators found that the aircraft had sufficient fuel to reach an alternative airport as a single-engine aircraft. While the pilot attempted to contact Casablanca Center, communication was difficult due to the surrounding mountainous terrain.
Physical examination of the wreckage revealed extensive damage, including a destroyed left wingtip, detached fuel tanks, and the loss of all landing gear. The investigation also reviewed the Quick Reference Handbook (QRH), noting that while it contained procedures for general engine failure, it did not specifically outline troubleshooting steps for high oil temperature.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was an inappropriate decision regarding the emergency landing site.
- The pilot's reaction—simultaneously reducing power to both engines—was influenced by a lack of specific training and experience in managing multi-engine emergency procedures.
- The pilot's experience was primarily rooted in single-engine piston aircraft, which contributed to the improper handling of the engine temperature issue.
- The aircraft's deviation from the intended landing path was triggered by an attempt to avoid an oncoming vehicle on the roadway.
- The impact with large stones on the shoulder resulted in significant structural damage to the fuselage, wings, and landing gear.