ANSV Releases Investigation Reports for Three Italian Aviation Occurrences

Casualties unknown • Napoli MD82, IT

The Italian National Agency for Flight Safety (ANSV) has published findings regarding a McDonnell Douglas MD-82 engine failure, a Cessna 120 emergency landing, and an ASK 21 glider ground damage incident.

The ANSV has finalized investigations into three separate aviation occurrences involving commercial and recreational aircraft, detailing mechanical failures and human factors.

What happened

On December 16, 2000, an Alitalia Team McDonnell Douglas MD-82, registration I-DAVT, experienced a left engine flame-out during its initial climb from Naples Capodichino Airport while en route to Palermo. The crew declared an emergency and successfully returned to the airport for a landing.

On October 27, 2002, a Cessna 120, registration I-FFLJ, performing a recreational flight near Castelluccio di Norcia, experienced engine power loss at an altitude above 5,000 feet. The pilot performed an emergency landing in a field at Pian Grande.

On December 19, 2002, an ASK 21 glider, registration I-PAIS, operated by Aero Club Torino, sustained damage during a local flight at Torino Aeritalia Airport. The glider was being towed by a Robin DR 400; however, a ground handling dolly remained attached to the tail boom. After the pilot was notified of the dolly's presence, they disconnected from the tow and initiated a landing, during which the dolly struck the ground, causing damage to the tail section.

The investigation

Investigators examined the MD-82 engine components, specifically the P&D valve, at Fiat Avio. For the Cessna 120, the investigation focused on engine performance and spark plug condition. Regarding the ASK 21, the ANSV scrutinized the pre-flight inspection procedures and the operator's failure to promptly notify authorities of the damage.

Findings

  • The MD-82 engine failure was caused by excessive tightening of two closing nuts on the P&D valve filter cover, which damaged the valve body's threaded seat.
  • The Cessna 120 engine instability was attributed to the pilot's failure to use the carburetor heat system at high altitudes, compounded by technical factors including fouled spark plugs and the use of incorrect copper gaskets.
  • The ASK 21 incident resulted from an incomplete pre-flight inspection that failed to detect the attached dolly.

Probable cause

The primary causes identified across the three reports include maintenance errors (over-tightening components), human error in flight operations (failure to use carburetor heat), and inadequate pre-flight inspections.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-12-16 MD82, accident near Napoli MD82, IT?

The Italian National Agency for Flight Safety (ANSV) has published findings regarding a McDonnell Douglas MD-82 engine failure, a Cessna 120 emergency landing, and an ASK 21 glider ground damage incident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-12-16 involved a MD82,, registration I-DAVT, at Napoli MD82, IT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The primary causes identified across the three reports include maintenance errors (over-tightening components), human error in flight operations (failure to use carburetor heat), and inadequate pre-flight inspections.

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