Accident Details
A single-engine aircraft departed Balota (Drobeta) Aerodrome at 0930LT to conduct a spraying mission over a wooded area on behalf of the Department of Forestry. The aircraft carried two pilots and one passenger. Approximately 50 minutes into the flight, after completing several low passes over the treatment area, the engine lost power.
Emergency Landing
The crew decided to return to Balota Aerodrome and initiated a 180-degree turn. During the turn, the engine stopped completely. The crew then attempted an emergency landing in an open field. After touchdown, the aircraft rolled for approximately 130 meters before the left main landing gear collapsed. The airplane came to rest, and all three occupants exited the aircraft uninjured. The aircraft sustained damage beyond repair.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident to be an engine failure in flight due to fuel exhaustion. Contributing factors identified include poor flight preparation on the part of the crew, who did not follow the pre-takeoff checklist. Additionally, the checklist document was printed in an inappropriate format for the purpose for which it was intended. The aircraft was damaged beyond repair due to the nature of the terrain where the emergency landing occurred.