Single-Engine Aircraft Ditches in Mediterranean After Engine Power Loss (EC-IQX)

Incident Overview and Initial Flight Details A single-engine aircraft departed from Madrid-Cuatro Vientos Airport at 1617LT, carrying one pilot and three passengers. The aircraft was operating at flight level 230 when the pilot contacted Palma ARTCC and received clearance to descend to flight level 130. ## Engine Anomalies and Emergency Declaration Shortly after the descent clearance, the pilot observed a drop in engine torque accompanied by an increase in turbine temperature. The pilot attempted multiple troubleshooting procedures for the fuel supply system, including checking the fuel selector, but the condition did not improve. During the descent to 9,000 feet, the indicated airspeed was only 80 knots. At 1722LT, the pilot contacted air traffic control to declare an emergency and continued the descent. ## Ditching and Rescue Operations Realizing that the aircraft could not reach Palma Airport, the pilot attempted to ditch the aircraft in the Mediterranean Sea. The aircraft landed in the water approximately 27.7 kilometers north of Ibiza Island and came to rest. All four occupants were quickly rescued and reported uninjured. The aircraft subsequently sank and was lost.