What happened
On July 23, 2011, a Cessna TU-206, registration G-CCRC, was conducting a routine parachute drop operation near the Santa Cilia de Jaca Aerodrome in Huesca, Spain. The aircraft was carrying a pilot and five passengers. While flying at approximately 11,000 feet, the pilot began reducing engine RPMs to level off after a climb when the engine began to lose power, accompanied by vibrations and the smell of smoke.
The passengers successfully completed their parachute jump and landed at the planned location. During the subsequent descent, the pilot attempted to apply power for landing, but the engine failed to respond. Due to increasing turbulence near the airfield, the pilot executed an emergency landing in a clear field parallel to runway 27. There were no fatalities and no injuries to the crew or passengers, though the engine sustained significant damage.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical failure of the Teledyne Continental Motors TSIO 520-M7B engine and the maintenance history of the aircraft. Investigators examined the engine components, including the cylinders and valves, and reviewed maintenance records from several organizations across France, Germany, and Spain.
Technical analysis revealed that the engine had a history of high temperature readings and exhaust gas leaks, particularly involving the number 3 cylinder. The investigation also scrutinized the complex web of maintenance responsibilities involving the operator, a French maintenance center, and a German CAMO (Continuing Airworthiness Management Organization).