What happened
On 16 March 2008, a Pelikan experimental aircraft, registered PK-SKI, was conducting joy flight operations in the Pondok Cabe area under the management of Federasi Aero Sport Indonesia (FASI). During the flight, the pilot experienced engine instability, with witnesses noting unusual engine sounds during the pre-flight run-up. The aircraft subsequently suffered a loss of power, leading to a crash in the village of Pamulang. The impact destroyed the aircraft and damaged four residential houses. The pilot sustained fatal injuries in the accident.
The investigation
The investigation into the crash focused on the mechanical condition of the engine and the regulatory status of the flight. Investigators examined the wreckage and found the aircraft was completely destroyed, with the fuselage, wings, and cockpit shattered upon impact. Technical inspections of the engine revealed significant issues within the ignition system. Specifically, the investigation looked into the condition of the magnetos, the carburetor, and the overall maintenance history of the experimental aircraft.
Findings
Technical analysis established that the engine failed to produce sufficient power because of critical ignition malfunctions. The investigation identified that the left magneto harness was broken and the right magneto was experiencing unstable ignition due to a weak carbon brush spring and internal contamination from oil.
Furthermore, several regulatory and maintenance deficiencies were identified:
- The aircraft lacked a valid airworthiness certificate.
- There was no evidence of a valid pilot license for the operator.
- No maintenance records were available to verify the airworthiness of the engine or airframe.
- The pilot, who was also the aircraft owner, performed maintenance personally without documented oversight.
The primary cause of the crash was a loss of engine power resulting from ignition system failure.
Safety action
Following the investigation, the NTSC issued safety recommendations to the Directorate General Civil Aviation to ensure that experimental aircraft operating under FASI comply with CASR 91 regulations. Additionally, FASI was advised to implement better management of aircraft operations and maintenance for its members.