Emergency landing following engine issues near Cherbourg-Maupertus Airport

No fatalities • Cherbourg-Maupertus, France • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced engine malfunctions shortly after departing Cherbourg-Maupertus Airport, resulting in a crash landing in a nearby field with no fatalities.

What happened

During the initial climb phase following departure from Cherbourg-Maypertus Airport, the flight crew encountered significant mechanical issues involving the engines. These complications necessitated an immediate emergency descent and an attempt to land the aircraft safely.

While attempting to manage the situation, the aircraft departed from its flight path and struck the ground in an open field situated close to the airport perimeter. The impact resulted in a crash landing; however, the aircraft came to a complete stop without further movement. There were no fatalities or injuries reported among those on board during the incident.

Findings

The investigation into the mechanical failure determined that the primary factor leading to the emergency was an error in the engine's operation. Specifically, one of the propellers mistakenly auto-feathered while the aircraft was still in its early ascent, which compromised the power required for a stable climb.

Probable cause

An unintended auto-feathering of one propeller during the initial climb phase caused the engine issues that necessitated the emergency landing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1979-01-17 Nord 262 accident near Cherbourg-Maupertus, France?

An aircraft experienced engine malfunctions shortly after departing Cherbourg-Maupertus Airport, resulting in a crash landing in a nearby field with no fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1979-01-17 Nord 262 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1979-01-17 involved a Nord 262, registration 85, operated by French Navy (Aéronavale - Marine Nationale), at Cherbourg-Maupertus, France.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An unintended auto-feathering of one propeller during the initial climb phase caused the engine issues that necessitated the emergency landing.

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