What happened
On August 24, 2023, a Cessna 150-M, registration LV-CLJ, departed from the El Dorado aerodrome in the province of Misiones for a flight instruction session. Approximately 20 minutes into the flight, while the crew was performing touch-and-go maneuvers, the engine suffered a loss of power. The instructor, unable to reach the runway, executed an emergency landing in an unprepared field near the aerodrome.
The impact occurred primarily on the aircraft's left wing, causing the plane to rotate approximately 150 degrees before coming to a stop. The landing resulted in significant damage to the aircraft, including a deformed propeller and damage to the landing gear. The instructor and student pilot sustained two minor injuries, but both were able to exit the aircraft on their own.
The investigation
Investigators from the JST examined the aircraft's fuel system and the site of the accident. While the instructor had performed the standard pre-flight inspections, they could not confirm the exact amount of fuel loaded prior to departure. Furthermore, the Aeroclub Alto Paraná lacked documented records of fuel supplies provided to aircraft.
Upon inspection, investigators found that the fuel tanks and lines were in good condition, with no signs of leaks or blockages. However, the amount of fuel remaining in the tanks and lines was very low, consistent only with the unuseable fuel volume specified in the manufacturer's manual (approximately 6.5 liters per wing). The investigation also noted that the onboard fire extinguisher had been expired for approximately four years.
Findings
- The engine power loss was likely caused by fuel exhaustion.
- The aircraft was likely operating with a marginal amount of usable fuel, estimated at only about 20 liters total (including unuseable fuel) at the start of the flight.
- No mechanical failures or technical defects were found in the engine or fuel delivery system.
- The lack of fuel loading records at the aeroclub prevented precise verification of the available fuel autonomy.
Safety action
- The investigation highlighted the need for reliable fuel loading records to ensure traceability and prevent fuel exhaustion during flight operations.