What happened
On 2 August 2011, a pilot conducting a local flight in an Apex Aircraft DR400/120, registered OO-C**, experienced an engine failure during a gliding flight exercise. After performing several touch-and-go landings at Kortrijk, the pilot transitioned to a simulated engine-out maneuver at approximately 1400 ft. Upon attempting to apply power at 800 ft, the engine failed to respond to the throttle command.
Despite the pilot's attempts to revive the engine by manipulating the throttle, the power remained insufficient. At an altitude of 400 ft, the pilot identified a suitable wheat field for an emergency landing. The aircraft landed successfully in the field with no injuries to the pilot and only minor damage to the aircraft.
The investigation
Investigators from the AAIU(Be) examined the engine and the carburettor system to determine the source of the power loss. While initial inspections of the fuel pump and magneto timing showed no obvious malfunctions, a subsequent disassembly of the carburettor revealed the presence of small metallic and black particles in the float chamber.
Further detailed inspection of the fuel feed tube, which houses the metering valve, uncovered a dead insect. This insect had traveled through the carburettor air induction system and lodged at the bottom of the tube, effectively blocking the fuel feed to the main nozzle.