Engine power loss leads to landing gear damage in X’AIR Falcon 133

Casualties unknown • Near Sandy, Bedfordshire, GB

A private flight involving an X’AIR Falcon 133 experienced a partial engine power loss during descent, resulting in an emergency landing on uneven ground near Sandy.

What happened

On 5 July 2012, a X’AIR Falcon 133, registration G-CCNL, was descending through approximately 1,500 ft while approaching Sandy Airfield. During this descent, the aircraft's engine lost power. The pilot attempted various procedures to restore normal engine performance, but the engine remained unable to exceed 1,800 rpm despite remaining operational.

In response to the power loss, the pilot identified a suitable area of common ground to perform an emergency landing. While the landing was completed successfully, the aircraft struck an unseen ditch during the maneuver. This impact resulted in damage to the rear fuselage and the left landing gear.

The investigation

Following the incident, an inspection of the Verner 133M piston engine was conducted to determine the cause of the power loss. The investigation established that the engine's inability to produce sufficient power was due to mechanical failure within the valve train. Specifically, investigators found that a portion of a rocker on the inlet valve side had sheared off.

Findings

  • The engine power loss was caused by the shearing of a rocker component on the inlet valve side.
  • The aircraft sustained damage to the airframe and landing gear due to the impact with a ditch during the landing on common ground.
  • There were no injuries to the pilot during the event.

Probable cause

The engine failed to produce adequate power because a part of the inlet valve rocker had sheared off, necessitating an emergency landing on uneven terrain.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2012-07-05 X'Air Falcon 133(1) accident near Near Sandy, Bedfordshire, GB?

A private flight involving an X’AIR Falcon 133 experienced a partial engine power loss during descent, resulting in an emergency landing on uneven ground near Sandy.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2012-07-05 involved a X'Air Falcon 133(1), registration G-CCNL, at Near Sandy, Bedfordshire, GB.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine failed to produce adequate power because a part of the inlet valve rocker had sheared off, necessitating an emergency landing on uneven terrain.

Loading the flight search…