What happened
On 28 October 2008, a Diamond Star DA40, registration PK-VVL, was conducting a private company flight from Jakarta to Pangandaran. The aircraft, operated by Susi Air, was carrying one pilot and two passengers. During the climb to 9,500 feet, the engine power dropped to 75%, accompanied by warnings that the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) A and B were inoperative. Shortly after, the engine failed completely at an altitude of 9,200 feet.
The pilot attempted several restart procedures, adjusting power settings and electrical loads, but the engine would not restart and the propeller continued to windmill. The pilot subsequently performed a forced landing at the Infantry Training Center shooting range in Cipatat, Padalarang. While the aircraft sustained substantial damage to the nose, propeller, and landing gear, all three occupants evacuated the aircraft without injury.
The investigation
Investigators examined the engine and fuel systems to determine the cause of the power loss. While the fuel filters were found to be clean and free of contamination, the investigation revealed that the fuel line between the low-pressure feed pump and the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) was dry. Although some fuel remained in the injector lines, there was no fuel present in the return line.
Technical analysis of the high-pressure fuel pump by the manufacturer revealed that the component had been contaminated by internal debris. Specifically, the failure of a valve cage and lock ring within the pump released particles that likely obstructed the fuel flow.
Findings
- The engine failure was caused by fuel starvation resulting from the failure of the high-pressure fuel pump.
- Internal debris from a failed valve cage and lock ring contaminated the high-pressure fuel pump, preventing pressurized fuel from reaching the engine cylinders.
- The aircraft was airworthy and properly fueled at the time of departure.
- The pilot did not hold the required Indonesian pilot license or a valid validation for the Indonesian-registered aircraft.
Safety action
Following the investigation, the NTSC issued recommendations to the aircraft operator, Susi Air, to review pilot licensing and qualification procedures for Indonesian-registered aircraft. Additionally, a recommendation was made to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation to coordinate with the European Aviation Safety Agency, ensuring the engine manufacturer conducts a safety assessment of the high-pressure fuel pump failure to prevent similar occurrences.