What happened
On September 20, 2007, a Diamond DA 42 was conducting a private flight from Linz Airport (LOWL) to Krems-Langenlois (LOAG). During the return leg of the flight, the aircraft experienced a massive loss of power in the right piston engine. In response to the failure, the pilot shut down the affected engine.
Following the engine failure, the pilot attempted to continue the flight to the original destination in Linz. Despite multiple unsuccessful attempts to restart the right engine, the aircraft's altitude continued to decrease steadily. Realizing that the destination was no longer reachable, the pilot was forced to execute an emergency landing near St. Valentin.
During the final approach, the pilot identified a medium-voltage power line crossing the flight path and attempted to fly beneath the wires. The aircraft subsequently struck a cultivated field, causing it to capsize. The pilot sustained serious injuries, while the passenger suffered minor injuries. The aircraft was destroyed by the impact.
The investigation
The SUB investigation examined several technical and operational aspects of the accident. Investigators analyzed the engine's Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) data, which recorded the sequence of events leading to the power loss. The investigation also included a detailed inspection of the aircraft's wiring harness, specifically focusing on the right piston engine.
Technical examinations revealed an improper installation of a connector on the wiring harness. Specifically, the investigation identified an improperly mounted plug/connector on the harness, which contributed to the electrical failure. Furthermore, the investigation reviewed the pilot's decision-making process, noting the use of the FORDEC model and evaluating the influence of "get-there-itis" regarding the decision to continue toward Linz despite the engine failure.