Factual Information
On 18 June 2022, a Piper PA-28RT-201 Arrow IV, registration OM-EMM, operated by FUTURE FLY s.r.o., departed from VPP BD (Bidovce) for a flight to LZKZ (Košice) and return. The aircraft was a four-seat, low-wing, all-metal monoplane with retractable landing gear, powered by a Lycoming IO-360-C1C6 engine. The pilot (PIC) held a valid PPL(A) with SEP(L) rating and had 280 hours total flight time, with 213 hours on type.
Sequence of Events
During pre-flight, the pilot checked oil level and found it within limits. Starting the engine required an external power unit after four unsuccessful attempts due to low battery. The engine warmed up and a run-up showed no anomalies. Departure from VPP BD occurred at 09:13 UTC, with a climb to 2000 ft QNH 1023. After flying over Košice, the pilot requested a low pass over runway 19 at LZKZ. During the approach, exhaust gas temperature (EGT) briefly exceeded 800°C.
After the low pass, the pilot executed a left climbing turn toward Gyňov, then a 280° turn back to VPP BD. Over Vyšná Myšľa, the aircraft experienced unusual vibrations. The Engine Data Monitor (EDM 930) showed cylinder #3 EGT in the yellow band at about 855°C. The pilot enrichened the mixture, switched fuel tanks, and turned on the fuel boost pump. Despite full throttle, airspeed decreased to 80 kt. The pilot selected a field for emergency landing.
Emergency Landing and Damage
The pilot performed a wheels-down landing in a partly grain-covered field adjacent to a mowed meadow. After touchdown, the pilot braked heavily to avoid a poplar tree line. While crossing the field, the aircraft encountered ruts and furrows from agricultural vehicles. At about 20 km/h, the right main landing gear struck a rut, causing the gear leg to collapse and detach from its attachment point. The aircraft came to a stop. The pilot and three passengers evacuated without injury.
Aircraft damage included: destruction of the right main gear attachment lug; right main gear leg broken and torn from the attachment; right flap bent and skin wrinkled; right wing bent at approximately ¼ span from the root, with skin wrinkling and spar damage.
Other Information
The PIC reported the event to the Slovak Aviation and Maritime Investigation Authority. No third-party damages were reported. The aircraft had a valid certificate of airworthiness and insurance.