Engine failure during takeoff leads to aircraft rollover in Vaupés

Casualties unknown • Mitú, CO

A Cessna 172 experienced a sudden engine shutdown during takeoff at Kamanaos, resulting in a controlled emergency landing and subsequent aircraft rollover and fire.

What happened

On August 27, 2017, at approximately 15:15 local time, a Cessna 172, registration HK2156, was performing a non-scheduled passenger flight from Kamanaos to Puerto Inírida. The flight was operating under visual flight rules (VFR) with one pilot and three passengers.

During the takeoff roll, the aircraft's engine suffered a sudden loss of power. The pilot managed to execute a controlled emergency landing; however, as the aircraft reached the end of the unpaved runway, it encountered irregular terrain. This caused the aircraft to undergo a dynamic rollover on its transverse axis. Following the impact, a fire broke out, consuming approximately 8 and 80% of the airframe. All four occupants successfully evacuated the aircraft without injuries.

The investigation

The GRIAA investigation utilized digital video evidence and witness statements to reconstruct the event. Sound spectrum analysis of a bystander's video confirmed that the engine noise ceased abruptly immediately after rotation.

Technical inspections of the Continental IO-360-K engine were conducted at a certified workshop. While the engine and accessories generally appeared to be in good condition, investigators focused on the fuel delivery system. The investigation also examined the condition of the Kamanaos aerodrome, noting the lack of proper runway markings, safety zones, or standardized signaling.

Findings

  • The primary cause of the engine shutdown was the fracture of the fuel pump drive shaft (Shaft-Fuel Pump Drive) due to alternating torsion fatigue, which interrupted the fuel flow to the engine.
  • The lack of established safety zones and the irregular terrain at the end of the Kamanaos runway prevented the aircraft from decelerating safely, leading to the rollover.
  • The aircraft was found to be in compliance with all required maintenance schedules and airworthiness requirements.
  • The pilot was fully qualified and possessed valid medical and technical certifications.
  • The fire that destroyed the aircraft occurred after the occupants had already evacuated the vehicle.

Probable cause

The sudden engine failure was caused by the fracture of the fuel pump drive shaft due to alternating torsion, which stopped the flow of fuel during takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2017-08-27 R172K accident near Mitú, CO?

A Cessna 172 experienced a sudden engine shutdown during takeoff at Kamanaos, resulting in a controlled emergency landing and subsequent aircraft rollover and fire.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2017-08-27 involved a R172K, registration HK2156, at Mitú, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The sudden engine failure was caused by the fracture of the fuel pump drive shaft due to alternating torsion, which stopped the flow of fuel during takeoff.

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