What happened
On August 7, 2021, at 14:57 UTC, a Rockwell 690B, registration YV0115, operated by SERVICIO COORDINADO DE TRANSPORTE AÉREO DEL EJECUTIVO NACIONAL (S.A.T.A), experienced an engine malfunction during a flight from La Carlota (SVFM) to Ciudad Bolivar (SVCB). While cruising at FL195, the crew noticed a loss of torque indications on the right engine, with horsepower dropping to zero. This was immediately followed by a drop in oil pressure and RPM to zero.
The crew attempted to restart the engine following the procedures outlined in the Quick Reference Handbook (QRH), but the attempt was unsuccessful. The commander declared an emergency via a pan-pan signal to the Maiquetía Area Control Center, notifying controllers of the intention to divert to the nearest suitable airport. The aircraft subsequently performed a precautionary landing at General José Antonio Anzoáteugi International Airport (SVBC) without further incident. Both crew members were unharmed.
The investigation
The JIAAC investigation involved interviewing the crew and reviewing all relevant documentation, including pilot licenses, maintenance records, and flight plans. Investigators also examined the aircraft's maintenance history provided by the maintenance organization (OMAC-N 270).
Upon inspection of the right engine, investigators identified a fracture in the upper mounting points of the oil filter adapter (P/N: 894117-2). This structural failure caused an oil leak, which directly led to the loss of engine performance. Following the discovery, the faulty adapter was replaced, the oil levels were replenished, and a functional test was performed to ensure the engine was airworthy.