What happened
On 23 September 2021, a Partenavia P.68 Victor departed from Waterford Airport (EIWF) at 11:08 hrs to conduct an environmental research mission. The flight was intended to monitor marine wildlife along the Irish coast using a series of 16 pre-defined survey lines. On board were the pilot and three task specialists. The mission proceeded as planned for several hours, completing the initial 16 lines at altitudes between 250 and 300 feet.
After completing the primary survey, the pilot decided to attempt two additional survey lines based on remaining fuel levels. During the second of these extra lines, the aircraft's right engine ceased operation while the plane was flying at roughly 105 knots and 300 feet. Although the aircraft initially climbed to 500 feet, the pilot noted that the climb was less efficient than anticipated while relying solely on the left engine. During this phase, the left engine experienced a significant, intermittent loss of power. This pattern of losing power, descending, and then regaining power repeated multiple times.
As the aircraft approached the coastline, the left engine suffered another power loss. The pilot executed a left bank to perform a forced landing on a beach covered in loose shale. The impact caused the nose of the aircraft to strike the ground, resulting in substantial structural damage to the forward cabin and the shattering of the windscreen. All occupants managed to exit the aircraft, though the pilot had to exit through the broken windscreen.
Findings
- The aircraft sustained serious injuries to the pilot and one task specialist, while the remaining two specialists suffered minor injuries.
- The intermittent power loss in the left engine was the primary factor leading to the inability to maintain altitude and the subsequent forced landing.