What happened
On March 4, 2008, a Cessna T 210N, registration OK-CIC, was performing a flight from LKKB via LKPC with the intention to land at LKLT for refueling. After departing from LKPC on runway 27, the aircraft climbed to 2000ft AMSL and began a right turn. Approximately one minute into level flight, the pilot noticed a slight deceleration accompanied by a change in engine sound. The engine manifold pressure dropped below 20 in/Hg, and engine RPM moved out of the green arc.
The pilot attempted to restore engine power by adjusting the propeller, mixture, and manifold pressure, but the engine failed to respond. After switching the fuel selector from the right tank to the left tank and attempting to restart the engine with the starter, there was still no effect. At an altitude of approximately 200 m AGL and a speed near 90 knots, the pilot decided to perform an emergency landing in the terrain. The pilot selected a suitable area and executed a belly landing with the landing gear retracted. During the landing, the engine propeller struck the ground, causing the engine to stop. The aircraft sustained damage to the lower fuselage, the nose gear bay covers, and the right wing edge.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation examined the engine, fuel systems, and the pilot's emergency procedures. A detailed technical inspection of the engine was conducted by an authorized maintenance organization. The investigation verified that the engine's measurable mechanical and electrical values, including crankshaft end play, were within operational tolerances. No abnormalities or leaks were found in the systems responsible for engine operation. Fuel samples from both tanks were found to be free of water or contaminants. The investigation also confirmed that the pilot's decision to land in the terrain was appropriate and in accordance with the aircraft's flight manual.
Findings
- The pilot's decision to execute an emergency landing without landing gear was correct and consistent with the flight manual.
- The pilot did not use the auxiliary fuel pump during the emergency due to time pressure and the need to focus on the landing procedure.
- The specific cause of the engine power loss could not be determined as no technical malfunction could be identified during ground testing.
- The pilot'allowed the engine to continue running by switching to the left tank, which contained significantly less fuel (6 liters) than the right tank (36 liters) at the time of the accident.