Engine failure during parachute jump operations near SUME, Uruguay

Casualties unknown • UY

A Cessna 182 experienced a total loss of engine power during an approach to land, forcing an emergency landing in an unprepared field.

What happened

On April 27, 2025, a Cessna 182, registration CX-AKB, was conducting parachute jump operations at the SUME aerodrome in Uruguay. The aircraft had completed two successful jumps earlier in the day and had been refueled with approximately 50 liters of fuel per wing. During the third flight, the aircraft climbed to 5,0-feet and released four skydivers.

During the descent, the pilot activated the carburetor heat to 75% and maintained this setting. Due to heavy air traffic at the aerodrome for an ongoing air festival, the pilot was instructed via radio to enter an extended holding pattern. While approximately 2 km from the aerodrome, the engine suffered a total loss of power. To avoid the crowded airfield, the pilot performed an emergency landing in an unprepared field near the aerodrome. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, evacuated the aircraft uninjured, and the aircraft sustained no damage.

The investigation

The CIAIA investigation examined the aircraft's fuel system, the pilot's operational procedures, and the mechanical state of the engine. Investigators noted that the aircraft's fuel tanks are located in the wings with gravity-fed lines positioned near the trailing edge. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's flight logs, maintenance records, and the specific configuration of the aircraft, which had been modified for sporting use, including a specialized door and a footrest platform.

Findings

  • The engine was functioning correctly prior to the power loss and was able to restart after the emergency landing once additional fuel was added.
  • The pilot maintained the carburetor heat in the active position throughout the descent and the extended holding pattern.
  • At the time of the incident, the fuel selector was set to "BOTH ON," with approximately 25 liters of fuel remaining in each wing.
  • The fuel delivery lines are located near the trailing edge of the wings, making the system susceptible to fuel starvation if the aircraft's pitch or bank angles cause air to enter the lines.
  • The continuous use of carburetor heat during a descent with low fuel levels likely contributed to the engine failure by facilitating fuel starvation.

Probable cause

The engine failure was likely caused by fuel starvation, triggered by the combination of low fuel levels and the pilot's decision to maintain carburetor heat during a descent, which potentially allowed air to enter the gravity-fed fuel lines.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the null aircraft accident near UY?

A Cessna 182 experienced a total loss of engine power during an approach to land, forcing an emergency landing in an unprepared field.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on null involved a aircraft, registration CX-AKB, at UY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine failure was likely caused by fuel starvation, triggered by the combination of low fuel levels and the pilot's decision to maintain carburetor heat during a descent, which potentially allowed air to enter the gravity-fed fuel lines.

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