What happened
On June 11, 2006, at 15:05 local time, a Piper PA 28-181 departed from Landshut-Ellermühle airport for a private sightseeing flight. The aircraft was carrying two occupants. Shortly after takeoff from runway 07, the engine began to sputter and experienced several power interruptions. The pilot notified the tower via radio that the aircraft was experiencing engine problems and was forced to perform an emergency landing.
The aircraft subsequently landed in a meadow approximately 1,000 meters beyond the end of the runway. During the landing sequence, the aircraft struck trees, which caused the right wing to separate from the fuselage. The fuselage and the left wing came to rest on the eastern bank of a stream, while the detached right wing landed in the water.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical state of the engine and the fuel system configuration. Investigators noted that the spark plug electrodes were dry and exhibited white discoloration. Regarding the fuel system, there were conflicting accounts concerning the fuel selector valve; while the pilot stated he had set the valve to draw fuel from both tanks after starting the engine, the BFU found all cockpit switches in the "Off" position, with the fuel selector specifically set to "Right."
Findings
- The aircraft sustained major damage, including the destruction of the airframe and damage to nearby forest vegetation.
- The pilot sustained minor injuries, while the passenger sustained serious injuries.
- The primary cause of the accident was an engine failure characterized by intermittent power loss shortly after takeoff.