What happened
On March 29, 2005, at approximately 17:10 UTC, a Piper PA 28-180, registration OK-SDK, was performing solo difference training maneuvers at Hořovice Airport (LKHV). During the second flight of the session, while executing the third turn of a northern circuit near the village of Tlustice, the pilot noted an irregular engine running condition.
Due to the engine instability and the low altitude at the time, the pilot decided to perform an emergency landing in a nearby agricultural field. The aircraft came to rest approximately 1.5 km northwest of the airfield, near the village of Záluží. The landing site consisted of dry, firm ground with uneven surfaces. The crew sustained no injuries, and the aircraft suffered no damage.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation established that the pilot was properly qualified for the flight and held a valid medical certificate. The aircraft was maintained according to manufacturer procedures, and its technical condition was found to be airworthy and not a contributing factor to the incident. Meteorological conditions at the time of the event were favorable, with visibility exceeding 10 km and light winds.
Upon inspection of the aircraft at the landing site, investigators found the flaps retracted, the engine controls in the "stop" position, and the fuel mixture lever in the "lean" position. Both fuel tanks were approximately half full, and the engine oil level was adequate.
Findings
- The pilot accidentally leaned the fuel mixture while adjusting the engine settings during the flight.
- This error resulted in an irregular engine running condition.
- The pilot's decision to land in the field was prompted by the low altitude and the presence of overhead electrical lines in the immediate vicinity.