Cessna A152 Engine Failure Incident in Necochea (LV-OFS)

Incident Overview and Flight Details On April 16, 2022, at 18:40 UTC, a Cessna A152 with registration LV-OFS was involved in a serious incident near Necochea, Buenos Aires Province, Argentina. The aircraft, owned by Aeroclub General Necochea, had departed from Necochea aerodrome at 18:20 UTC for a general aviation recreation flight. Approximately 20 minutes after takeoff, while flying at 1,500 feet and 800 meters from the coast in visual meteorological conditions, the pilot noticed engine vibrations. The engine subsequently stopped, prompting the pilot to direct the aircraft toward the beach and execute an emergency landing. The occupants, consisting of the pilot and one passenger, exited the aircraft unharmed. ## Investigation and Technical Findings Upon arrival, the investigation team found the aircraft had already been towed to a safe location. Initial observations revealed damage to the left side of the engine block. During the field investigation, the upper spark plugs showed significant wear, oxidation, and detached material. The lower spark plugs exhibited similar deterioration. A fuel sample was collected for analysis. The pilot held a Private Pilot License (PPA) issued in February 2022, with 27 flight hours since issuance, mostly in this aircraft. The aircraft was airworthy, with its last annual inspection in July 2021. Although the owner reported additional maintenance, no records were found after the annual inspection. At the time of the incident, the aircraft had accumulated 243.2 flight hours since the last annual inspection. The engine had 1,692.3 hours since its last overhaul and 5,718.2 hours since manufacture. ## Meteorological Conditions and Landing Site The National Meteorological Service reported favorable conditions on the day of the incident, with 10 kilometers of visibility, wind from 340 degrees at 8 knots, and no significant cloud cover or phenomena. The emergency landing occurred in a coastal area south of Necochea. Despite the beach being crowded, no injuries were reported among bystanders. ## Engine Disassembly and Damage Analysis The engine disassembly was performed at an authorized Aircraft Repair Shop (TAR). During the process, it was observed that connecting rod number three had completely detached from its crankshaft anchor. This caused the destruction of the bearings and impacts to the engine block, damaging part of the cylinder and piston. Inspection of the crankshaft identified a fracture in the journal corresponding to that connecting rod. The lubricant contained fine particles, indicating internal damage.