What happened
On March 20, 2022, a Tecnam P2008-JC, registration I-CNTA, was performing a routine hour-building flight departing from Valbrembo Airport (LILV) in Italy. Shortly after takeoff from runway 20, the pilot noticed a sudden decrease in engine revolutions, with the RPM dropping from normal operating levels to approximately 1800, and eventually down to 1500 RPM.
Realizing the aircraft lacked sufficient energy to maintain a safe climb and fearing the proximity of a residential area, the pilot executed an emergency landing in a plowed field located approximately 500 meters south of the runway threshold. The aircraft struck the uneven terrain at approximately 58 knots with the flaps extended. The impact caused the nose gear and main landing gear to collapse, leading to contact between the propeller and the ground and damage to the lower fuselage. The pilot and one passenger sustained no injuries.
The investigation
The ANSV investigation focused on the engine's performance and the fuel system. The aircraft was equipped with a Rotax 912 S2 engine. Investigators examined the engine and the fuel delivery components. During the examination of the engine, which was conducted in the presence of investigators and representatives from the engine manufacturer, dirt particles were discovered within the gascolator.
While the engine was found to operate correctly on a test bench when provided with clean fuel, the presence of contaminants in the fuel system was a key focus of the technical analysis. The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's maintenance history, noting that recent inspections had included checks of the air intake, exhaust, and fuel systems, as well as the replacement of carburetor gaskets.
Findings
- The primary cause of the power loss was fuel contamination within the fuel system.
- Dirt particles found in the gascolator interrupted the consistent flow of fuel to the engine, leading to the observed drop in RPM.
- The pilot's decision to perform an emergency landing in a field was prompted by the inability to maintain a safe climb gradient following the power loss.