Incident Overview
On 4 April 2002, a Cessna 172 RG, registration EC-DNG, was involved in an incident while conducting a dual instruction flight. The aircraft departed Cuatro Vientos Airport at 13:05 local time under visual flight rules. On board were a commercial pilot instructor and a student pilot. Weather conditions were reported as visibility greater than 10 km, temperature 17°C, and no wind gusts.
Flight Details
The aircraft was equipped with a single Lycoming O-360-F1A6 engine. The flight plan indicated a visual instruction flight with a return to Cuatro Vientos. At 13:50, while cruising at 4,500 feet and 120 knots, the instructor initiated a simulated engine failure by reducing throttle to idle and applying carburetor heat. The student then performed the school's emergency procedure: reducing speed to 75 knots (best glide), selecting a suitable field, and beginning the approach while verbally describing each step.
Sequence of Events
The student executed a visual traffic pattern with downwind, base, and final legs. At approximately 100 feet altitude on final approach, the instructor noticed a power line ahead, about 20 meters away. The instructor took control, informing the student, and decided to pitch down to pass under the wires, as flying over was deemed difficult due to no engine power and full flaps configuration. As the aircraft passed under the power line, a loud noise was heard, the aircraft began to vibrate, and the stall warning sounded. The instructor immediately applied full power and performed a go-around. After reaching 3,000 feet, the instructor chose to land at Casarrubios aerodrome, which was closer than Cuatro Vientos. During the flight, the instructor noted that the aircraft did not respond to rudder input.
Damage
Upon landing on runway 26 at Casarrubios and taxiing to the refueling area, damage was assessed. The vertical stabilizer's upper section was severed, and the rudder had two cuts but remained attached via control cables, which were not severed. The aircraft sustained minor damage overall. It was subsequently transported by ground to Cuatro Vientos for repairs.
Probable Cause
The investigation determined the probable cause of the incident to be insufficient terrain reconnaissance and, consequently, inadequate selection of the field for the emergency landing.
Notification Delay
The incident occurred on 4 April 2002 but was not reported to the Civil Aviation Accident and Incident Investigation Commission until 16 April 2002, after the aircraft had been moved from Casarrubios to Cuatro Vientos for repair. The report noted that timely notification is crucial for accident prevention and that flight schools should incorporate procedures for reporting incidents to authorities.