What happened
On June 12, 2022, a private PMD Boyero aircraft, registration LV-ZEY, was conducting a general aviation ferry flight from Longchamps to Oran. During the cruise phase of the flight, the pilot identified critical engine parameters indicating an increase in oil temperature alongside a drop in oil pressure.
Due to the potential for engine failure, the pilot elected to terminate the flight early. To avoid further complications, the pilot performed a precautionary landing in an unprepared field located near Hersillia, in the province of Santa Fe.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical state of the engine and the circumstances leading to the decision to land. The aircraft, an IAE 20 (0-2250kg) model, was operating under Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC) at the time of the incident. The investigation confirmed that the pilot's decision was driven by real-time monitoring of engine health indicators.
Findings
- The pilot detected engine oil temperature exceeding limits and a simultaneous decrease in oil pressure.
- The landing was executed in an unprepared field as a safety measure to prevent a total engine loss.
- There were no injuries reported to the single occupant of the aircraft, and the aircraft sustained no damage during the landing.