What happened
On October 24, 2004, a Christen Eagle II, registration N444MM, was participating in a recreational flight event at the Rarogne airfield. During the climb phase following takeoff, the pilot experienced a significant loss of engine power accompanied by engine detonations. The aircraft was at an altitude of approximately 1,000 feet near Viège when the malfunction occurred.
In an attempt to return to the airfield, the pilot performed a 180-degree turn and attempted to restore power by manipulating the throttle while ensuring the mixture remained rich. Realizing that returning to the runway was not feasible, the pilot declared a 'Mayday' and executed an emergency landing in a nearby alfalfa field. During the approach, the pilot shut off the fuel supply, causing the engine to stop before touchdown. While the initial contact with the ground was successful, the aircraft struck an irrigation ditch crossing the landing path. This impact caused the landing gear to collapse, forcing the aircraft to skid on its nose for approximately 50 meters. Both the pilot and the passenger escaped the aircraft without injury.
The investigation
Investigators examined the engine and the aircraft's components following the impact. A technical examination of the engine on a test bench revealed that the engine was operating on only three cylinders, which had caused significant vibrations and the emission of black smoke observed by witnesses. The investigation focused on the fuel system and the cause of the power loss.
Findings
- The primary cause of the engine power loss was a clogged fuel injector in cylinder number three.
- The obstruction was caused by a small rubber particle within the injector, the origin of which could not be determined.
- The pilot's decision to perform an emergency landing in the field was considered justified given the proximity of the site.
- The irrigation ditch, which was approximately 20 cm wide and partially obscured by alfalfa, was not visible to the pilot during the landing maneuver and was the direct cause of the landing gear failure.