What happened
This report summarizes several serious aviation occurrences investigated by the ANSV:
- May 25, 2001: An airprox occurred at Roma Urbe airport involving a Cessna 1/82 (I-LUPP) and a BN-2P (I-LACO). The Cessna 182 entered the controlled zone without prior contact with the tower and failed to report its entry point. The two aircraft ended up perpendicular to each other at close proximity, necessitating an emergency avoidance maneuver by the second aircraft.
- August 4, 2001: A Fuji FA-200-160 (D-ELHR) experienced an engine failure during a transfer flight near Caorle. The pilot performed an emergency landing on a beach, resulting in minor damage to the aircraft and impact with beach equipment.
- February 12, 2002: During takeoff from Bratislava, a Fokker F.27 (I-SIXA) experienced an automatic propeller feathering and engine shutdown on the right engine, leading to an aborted takeoff.
- July 23, 2001: A Socata TB 9 (I-IAEU) veered off the runway during landing at Bari Palese after the pilot attempted to correct a wing lift, resulting in minor damage to the right wing.
- June 13, 2000: A Short SC7 (VH-WGG) experienced a structural failure where the main door detached during flight over Padova, falling into a populated area.
The investigation
The ANSV examined the technical components and operational sequences for each event. For the Fuji FA-200-160, investigators inspected the fuel system and engine components. For the Fokker F.27, the investigation focused on the engine's electrical and mechanical systems. The investigation into the Short SC7 involved reviewing the procedures used during parachute deployment and the state of the door locking mechanisms.
Findings
- The engine failure in the Fuji FA-200-160 was caused by the near-complete occlusion of the left wing tank vent pipe by a wasp nest, which created negative pressure and restricted fuel flow.
- The Fokker F.27 engine shutdown was attributed to a malfunction of the Low Torque Switch on the right engine.
- The Cessna 182 airprox was caused by the pilot's failure to comply with air traffic regulations regarding communication and entry procedures.
- The Short SC7 door detachment was caused by an incorrect closing maneuver by the instructor, who attempted to close the door while the support latches were still retracted.