Engine power failure leads to forced landing of SF-25 Falke in Bromarv

Casualties unknown • FI

An engine power malfunction during a low-altitude glide forced a motor glider to perform an emergency landing in a small field near Bromarv, resulting in aircraft damage.

What happened

On June 15, 1997, a private flight involving an SF-25-C Falke, registration OH-598, was conducting a bird-nesting survey near Hangö. Approximately 15 minutes into the flight, the pilot initiated a low-altitude glide from 300 meters. After a few minutes of gliding at 200 meters, the pilot attempted to increase power to level off; however, the engine failed to respond to the throttle, remaining at a steady idle of 700–800 rpm.

The aircraft was positioned over the sea, with the nearest available landing site being a field on the mainland several kilometers away. Utilizing a headwind, the pilot managed to reach a field, though the landing area was severely restricted by a rocky slope and a cross-drainage ditch. The pilot utilized heavy braking and a side-slip maneuver to reach the ground. The aircraft touched down approximately 50 meters past the ditch. Due to the slippery surface of the field, the pilot performed a sharp turn to stop the aircraft, eventually coming to a halt 15 meters from a treeline. There were no injuries to the two occupants, but the aircraft sustained damage to the propeller, the right wingtip, the right aileron pushrod, and the right wing support wheel.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-06-15 aircraft accident near FI?

An engine power malfunction during a low-altitude glide forced a motor glider to perform an emergency landing in a small field near Bromarv, resulting in aircraft damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-06-15 involved a aircraft, registration OH-598, at FI.

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