Engine failure during simulated emergency training leads to field landing in Quend

Casualties unknown • FR

A Robin DR 315 experienced engine power loss and subsequent engine surges during a simulated engine failure exercise, resulting in an emergency landing in a field.

What happened

On Thursday, May 15, 1997, at 12:15, a Robin DR 315 aircraft, registered F-BRTP, was conducting an instructional flight near Quend, France. The flight, operated by a local flying club, involved an instructor and a student pilot. During the session, the crew was performing an engine failure drill, which included a simulated forced landing in a field.

Following a go-around maneuver performed at 300 feet above the ground, the aircraft initially climbed normally to an altitude of approximately 600 feet. At this point, the Lycoming O-235 C 2A engine experienced a loss of power accompanied by engine surges. The instructor took control of the aircraft and successfully executed an emergency landing in a nearby field. There were no injuries to the occupants and no damage to the aircraft.

The investigation

Following the incident, the club's mechanic performed a technical examination of the engine. The inspection focused on the fuel system and the carburetor components to determine the source of the power loss.

Findings

  • The investigation established that the engine failure was caused by carburetor pollution.
  • Specifically, deposits were discovered within the mixture control housing of the carburetor.
  • The fuel used for the flight was identified as automotive unleaded gasoline (super).

Probable cause

The engine power loss and subsequent surges were caused by deposits found in the carburetor mixture control housing, resulting from the use of automotive fuel.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-05-15 INCIDENT survenu à l’avion accident near FR?

A Robin DR 315 experienced engine power loss and subsequent engine surges during a simulated engine failure exercise, resulting in an emergency landing in a field.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-05-15 involved a INCIDENT survenu à l’avion, at FR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine power loss and subsequent surges were caused by deposits found in the carburetor mixture control housing, resulting from the use of automotive fuel.

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