FINAL REPORT ON ACCIDENT

INVOLVING

CESSNA 152 AIRCRAFT VT-PTD

OPERATED BY

FALCON AVIATION ACADEMY

ON 26/04/2018 AT FAIZABAD

Jasbir Singh Larhga Dinesh Kumar

Investigator In-Charge Investigator
 Foreword
In accordance with Annex 13 to the Convention on International Civil
Aviation Organization (ICAO) and Rule 3 of Aircraft (Investigation of Accidents
and Incidents), Rules 2017, the sole objective of the investigation of an accident
shall be the prevention of accidents and incidents and not apportion blame or
liability.The investigation conducted in accordance with the provisions of the above
said rulesshall beseparate from any judicial or administrative proceedings to
apportion blame or liability.

This document has been prepared based upon the evidences collected during
the investigation, opinion obtained from the experts and laboratory examination of
various components. Consequently, the use of this report for any purpose other than
for the prevention of future accidents or incidents could lead to erroneous
interpretations.

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 INDEX

Para Content Page No.

SUMMARY 02
1 FACTUAL INFORMATION 03
1.1 HISTORY OF THE FLIGHT 03
1.2 INJURIES TO PERSONS 04

1.3 DAMAGE TO AIRCRAFT 05

1.4 OTHER DAMAGE 06

1.5 PERSONNEL INFORMATION 07

1.5.1 INSTRUCTOR PILOT 07

1.5.2 TRAINEE PILOT 07

1.6 AIRCRAFT INFORMATION 08

1.7 METEOROLOGICAL INFORMATION 11

1.8 AIDS TO NAVIGATION 11

1.9 COMMUNICATIONS 12

1.10 AERODROME INFORMATION 12

1.11 FLIGHT RECORDERS 13

1.12 WRECKAGE AND IMPACT INFORMATION 13

1.13 MEDICAL AND PATHOLOGICAL INFORMATION 14

1.14 FIRE 14

1.15 SURVIVAL ASPECTS 14

1.16 TESTS AND RESEARCH 14

1.16.1 ENGINE STRIP EXAMINATION 14

1.16.2 ENGINE STARTER LAB EXAMINATION 18

ii
1.17 ORGANISATIONAL AND MANAGEMENT INFORMATION 20

1.17.1 FALCON AVIATION ACADEMY 20

1.17.2 TRAINING AND PROCEDURES MANUAL 21

1.17.3 LOCAL FLYING AREA 22

1.18 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 22

1.18.1 PILOT OPERATING HANDBOOK 22

1.18.2 FUEL AND OIL UPLIFT 24

1.18.3 VISUAL FLIGHT RULES 24

1.19 USEFUL OR EFFECTIVE INVESTIGATION TECHNIQUES 24

2 ANALYSIS 25

2.1 SERVICEABILITY OF THE AIRCRAFT 25

2.2 CREW QUALIFICATIONS 26

2.3 WEATHER 26

2.4 FAIZABAD AERODROME 27

2.5 CIRCUMSTANCES LEADING TO THE ACCIDENT 27

3 CONCLUSIONS 28

3.1 FINDINGS 28

3.2 PROBABLE CAUSE OF THE INCIDENT 30

4 SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS 30

iii
 FINAL REPORT ON ACCIDENT INVOLVING CESSNA 152 AIRCRAFT
VT-PTD OPERATED BY M/s FALCON AVIATION ACADEMY, FAIZABAD
ON 26/04/2018 AT FAIZABAD

1. Aircraft Type : Cessna 152

Nationality : INDIAN
Registration : VT –PTD

2. Owner/ Operator : Falcon Aviation Academy, Faizabad

3. Pilot – in –Command : CPL holder on type,

Extent of injuries : Nil

4. First Officer : SPL Holder

Extent of injuries : Nil

5. Place of Accident : Saryu River bed, Faizabad

6. Date & Time of Accident : 26thApril 2018, 0600 UTC

7. Last point of Departure : Faizabad Airport

8. Point of intended landing : Faizabad Airport

9. Type of operation : Training Sortie

10. Crew on Board : 02

11. Phase of operation : Approach Circuit

12. Type of Accident : Forced landing, Non-Fatal

(ALL TIMINGS IN THE REPORT ARE IN UTC)

Page 1 of 30
SUMMARY
On 26.04.2018, M/s Falcon Aviation Academy Cessna 152 aircraft VT-PTD
while performing an instrument flying sortie was involved in a forced landing on
Saryu River bed, Faizabad at about 0600 UTC.
The flying instructor and the trainee pilot were scheduled for local flying in
sector south. This was the third sortie of the day. After pre-flight checks on the
aircraft, engine was started and aircraft took off at 0521 UTC from runway 12.
Initially, the aircraft climbed to 1000 feet in sector south to carry out GPS
assisted 05 NM arc approach for Runway 12. While the aircraft was on final
approach course, at approximately 0550 UTC, crew observed engine vibrations.
Subsequently, the aircraft engine stopped. Thereafter, instructor made some attempts
to reignite the engine, however, the engine did not come live. Finally, PIC decided
for forced landing of the aircraft. The aircraft was diverted towards the Saryu river.
PIC executed the forced landing, after assessing the river bed area and its
surroundings. Aircraft touched down on its main landing gears and continued to roll
for approximately 213 feet. As the nose landing gear came in contact with the river
bed, aircraft toppled and came to a halt. Both crew evacuated the aircraft and
information was transmitted to the local ATC to activate „Search and Rescue‟. None
of the occupants received any injury. There was no fire but aircraft was substantially
damaged.
Occurrence was classified as Accident as per the Aircraft (Investigation of
Accidents and Incidents) Rules, 2017. Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau vide its
Order No. 02/2018-Accident dated 01st May, 2018 appointed Mr. Jasbir Singh
Larhga, Assistant Director as an Investigator-in-Charge and Mr. Dinesh Kumar, Air
Safety Officer as Investigator .
Initial Notification of the occurrence was sent to ICAO and the NTSB,
USA on 27th April 2018 as per requirement of ICAO Annex 13. No Accredited
Representative was appointed by the NTSB.

Page 2 of 30
1. FACTUAL INFORMATION
1.1 History of the flight:
On 26.04.2018, Cessna 152 aircraft VT-PTD belonging to Falcon Aviation
Academy was scheduled to operate in sector south for local flying. The flight was
an Instrument Flying sortie, to be operated by a Flight Instructor and a Student
Pilot as part of flying training exercise for the student pilot.
As per the Flight Report Book, a total of 03 training sorties were planned to
be operated by VT-PTD on 26.04.2018. The first departure of the day by the
aircraft was at 0150 UTC and the aircraft landed back 0300 UTC. The second
departure was at 0330 UTC and aircraft landed back at 0440 UTC. No snag or
abnormality was reported by the crew during any of these flights. The third
departure was at 0515 UTC and expected duration of the flight was 40 minutes.
As per the statement obtained from the crew, the student pilot completed
the pre-flight preparations under the supervision of Flight Instructor and started
the engine at 0515 UTC after ATC clearance. Aircraft took-off from Rwy 12 at
0521 UTC after getting clearance for sector south. A GPS assisted 05NM
approach for Rwy 12 was planned to be carried out during the sortie.
After take-off, as the Flight Instructor monitored engine parameters and
flight instruments, no abnormality was observed. Student pilot was on controls
and aircraft attained an altitude of 1000 feet in sector south to carry out the
planned GPS assisted 05 NM approach for runway 12 at Faizabad airport.
Crew stated that while approaching final approach course for runway 12 at
about 0550 UTC, engine vibrations and drop in RPM were observed. The control
was thereafter taken over by the Instructor. As the Instructor tried to bring engine
vibrations and RPM in control, the engine stopped. Efforts were made by the
Instructor to restart the engine; however, the engine did not start.
As per the crew statement, the aircraft was losing height and they decided
to go for forced landing and headed the aircraft towards the Saryu riverbed to
execute a forced landing. As per the laid down emergency procedures, pre forced
landing checklist was carried out and the aircraft speed was regulated at 65 Kts
approximately. Aircraft glided and managed to touchdown on the riverbed with
Page 3 of 30
rear wheels touching the sandy ground first. Aircraft kept rolling in this attitude
for about 213 feet. As the aircraft lost speed and aircraft weight fell on its wheels,
nose wheel also touched the sandy ground. The nose wheel started sinking in the
sand which caused the aircraft to topple. Thereafter, the aircraft came to a halt.

Fig 1: Aircraft lying toppled at crash site

Subsequently, Flight Instructor instructed the student pilot to evacuate from
the aircraft. Both the crew were able to evacuate from the aircraft after releasing
the safety harness. None of the crew suffered any injury.
Flight Instructor immediately passed the information to CFI, Accountable
Manager and Military Liaising Unit(MLU) at 0602 UTC and maintained a safe
distance from the aircraft till arrival of search and rescue team from Falcon
Aviation Academy.

1.2 Injuries to Persons:

INJURIES CREW PASSENGERS OTHERS

FATAL Nil Nil Nil

SERIOUS Nil Nil Nil

MINOR/NONE 02 Nil Nil

Page 4 of 30
1.13 Damage to Aircraft:
The aircraft suffered damages mainly to its Nose Landing Gear, Engine
Mount, Wings, Tail Cone and Tail Fin.

Fig 2: Nose Landing gear bent due to bending of its mounting

Nose cowling of the aircraft received dents and Nose Landing Gear had
tilted to one side due to bending of its mounting. Nose wheel right hand steering
rod was also broken.

Fig 3: Engine Mounts broken

The engine mount assembly was found broken at three points.

Page 5 of 30
 Fig 4: Damages to LH and RH wing
Starboard wing had bulged at L.E near to the tip. Multiple wrinkles were
observed on both starboard & port wing on upper as well as lower surface.

Fig 5: Damages to Tail Fin and Tail Cone

Tail cone had cracked and bulged at two places approximately 2 feet from
rudder trailing edge. Tail fin was also severely damaged at approximately 1 foot
from the top.

1.4 Other damage:

NIL

Page 6 of 30
1.5 Personnel Information:

1.5.1 Instructor Pilot

Age : 49 years 06 months
License : CPL Holder
Category : Aeroplane
Validity of License : 07.03.19
Endorsements as PIC : Pushpak, Cessna-152, Cessna 172R
&Piper Seneca PA34
Date of Medical Exam : 06.02.2018
Validity of Medical Exam : 05.08.2018
FRTO License Validity : 07.03.2019
FIR issued on : 03.05.2007
FIR validity : 14.10.2018
Total flying experience : 4524:30 Hrs
Experience on type : 3612:30 Hrs
Experience as PIC on type : 3521:25 Hrs
Total flying experience during last 365 days : 604:35 Hrs
Total flying experience during last 180 days : 417:05 Hrs
Total flying experience during last 30 days : 83:45 Hrs
Total flying experience during last 07 days : 17:50 Hrs
Total flying experience during last 24 hours : 04:45 Hrs

The instructor had been flying for Falcon Aviation Academy since2016
and had flown as Assistant Flight Instructor and Flight Instructor for around
18years with various organisations including Falcon Aviation Academy.

1.5.2 Trainee Pilot

Age : 28 years 10 months
License : SPL Holder
Category : Aeroplane
Validity : 30.04.2022
Aircraft Ratings : Cessna 152, Cessna 172

Page 7 of 30
 FRTO License Validity : 18.05.2027
Date of Med. Exam : 03.04.2018
Med. Exam valid upto : 09.04.2019
Total flying experience : 162:55 Hrs
Experience on type : 95:30 Hrs
Total flying experience during last 365 days : 162:55 Hrs
Total flying experience during last 180 days : 101:35 Hrs
Total flying experience during last 30 days : 23:10 Hrs
Total flying experience during last 07 Days : 10:20 Hrs
Total flying experience during last 24 Hrs : 04:05 Hrs

Co-pilot joined the Falcon Aviation Academy in Jan 2018 to undergo

flying training for grant of CPL. He had earlier done 67.25 Hrs of flying in
another flying club before coming to Falcon Aviation Academy. He commenced
flying in May 2017 and had operated his first solo flight in July 2017.
Both pilots were not involved in any serious incident/ accident in the past.
Both pilots were current in flying and had adequate rest as per the Flight Duty
Time Limitations (FDTL) requirement prior to operating the accident flight.

1.6 Aircraft Information:

Cessna 152 aircraft is an all-metal, two-place, high-wing, single-engine
airplane equipped with tricycle landing gear and designed for general utility
purposes. The construction of the fuselage is a conventional formed sheet metal
bulkhead, stringer, and skin design referred to as semi monocoque.
The aircraft structure mainly consists of the following: -
 The front and rear carry-through spars to which the wings are attached.
 A bulkhead and forgings for main landing gear attachment provided at the
base of the rear doorposts.
 A bulkhead with attaching plates at the base of the forward door posts for
the lower attachment of the wing struts.
 Four engine mount stringers attached to the forward doorposts. The
stringers extend forward to the firewall.
Page 8 of 30
 Fuel Tanks are contained in the externally braced wings and consist of a
front and rear spar with formed sheet metal ribs, doublers, and stringers.
The aircraft is equipped with a Lycoming O-235-N2C engine. The
Lycoming O-235-N2C engine is four cylinder, direct drive, horizontally opposed,
wet sump, air-cooled model.
The maximum operating altitude for the aircraft is 14700 feet and
maximum take-off weight is 757Kgs. Aircraft length is 7.3 metres, wingspan is
10.2 metres and height of this aircraft is 2.6 metres.

Fig 6: Aircraft Layout

Page 9 of 30
 Aircraft VT-PTD (MSN 15285798) was manufactured in year 1983. The
aircraft is registered with DGCA under the ownership of M/s Falcon Aviation
Academy. The aircraft is registered under Category „A‟ and issued with
Certificate of Registration Number 4214 on 21.06.2011.
The Certificate of Airworthiness (CoA) Number 6323 under "Normal
category" subdivision “Passenger” was issued by DGCA on 11.02.2013. As per
the CoA, the specified minimum operating crew is one and AUW is 757 Kgs. At
the time of accident the CoA was current and valid until unless
suspended/cancelled subject to validity of ARC. ARC was issued on 28.03.2018
and was valid upto 28.03.2019.
The Aircraft was holding Aero Mobile License No A-114/004-RLO (NR)
at the time of accident which was valid upto 31.05.2019.
The aircraft and its engines are being maintained as per the „Maintenance
Program‟ consisting of calendar period/ flying Hours or Cycles based
maintenance as per maintenance program approved by DGCA‟s Regional
Airworthiness Office, Delhi.
Accordingly, the last major inspection undertaken on aircraft was “200
hrs/12 months inspection” and was carried out on 18.04.2018. Subsequently, all
lower inspections (Pre-flight checks, Service Checks, Weekly Checks) were
carried out as and when due before the accident.
The aircraft was last weighed on 05.03.2013 at Falcon Aviation Academy,
Faizabad. The weight schedule was prepared and duly approved by the office of
Director of Airworthiness, DGCA, Delhi. As per the approved weight schedule
the Empty Weight of the aircraft is 528.43 Kgs. Maximum Usable Fuel Quantity
is 61.20 Kgs. “Maximum Payload” with fuel tanks full is 82.86 Kgs. Empty
weight CG is 80.23 cm aft of datum.
The aircraft was equipped with Lycoming O-235-N2C Engine Sr No RL-
19324-15. The engine had logged 774 Hrs since last overhaul till the day of
accident. The last major inspection undertaken on the engine was “200 hrs/12
months inspection” and was carried out on 18.04.2018.

Page 10 of 30
 All concerned Airworthiness Directive & Mandatory Service Bulletins,
DGCA Mandatory Modifications on this aircraft and its engine were complied
with as on the date of event.

1.7 Meteorological Information:

As per Daily Meteorological Record maintained at FAA, before the
commencement of the first sortie of the day weather information for Faizabad
was collected at 0100 UTC. The reported weather as per the records was;
visibility 3500 meters in haze and 10 Kt winds with bearing 120°.Weather record
was also being obtained from Lucknow, Gorakhpur and Varanasi. The weather
reports are tabulated below.
Place Time Winds Visibility Clouds Max/Min QNH Forecast
UTC Temperature
Faizabad 0100 120°/10Kt 3500HZ NSC --- NOSIG
Lucknow 0000 VRB/02 Kt 3000HZ NSC 23/10 Q1003 NOSIG
Lucknow 0530 070°/08 Kt 3000HZ NSC 35/22 Q1006 NOSIG
Gorakhpur 0030 100°/07 Kt 5000 BR SKC 25/21 Q1006 NOSIG
Varanasi 0030 030°/04 Kt 3000 HZ NSC 26/15 Q1003 NOSIG
Varanasi 0500 040°/08 Kt 3500 HZ NSC 33/14 Q1006 NOSIG

This flight took off at 0515 UTC. As per the weather obtained from VILK
at 0530 UTC 08Kts winds with bearing 070° and visibility 3000 m in Haze were
reported. Weather obtained from Varanasi for 0500 UTC indicated 08 Kts winds
with bearing 040° and visibility of 3500 m in Haze. No Significant weather
change was reported by any station.
The operations were being carried out under Special VFR as prescribed in
the Section 9.4 of the DGCA approved Training and Procedure Manual of Falcon
Aviation Academy.

1.8 Aids to Navigation:

Faizabad Airport with Runway orientation 30/12 is a “Visual Approach
Runway” and no other navigation aid for landing is installed. VHF and
Transponder were fitted on the aircraft for navigation purpose.

Page 11 of 30
1.9 Communications:
The communication frequency available at Faizabad is 123.45 MHz and
aircraft was in positive communication with the ATC before the accident.

1.10 Aerodrome Information:

Faizabad Aerodrome is operated under private category by M/s Falcon
Aviation Academy under a lease agreement with the State Govt of Uttar Pradesh.
The IATA Location Identifier code is FBD and ICAO location Indicator code is
VI25.
There are no scheduled flights being operated at Faizabad. The airport is
primarily utilized by FAA to impart flying training to student pilots and is not
equipped with night operation facility.
The geographical co-ordinates of the airport are 26º45‟04” N and 082º 09‟
18” E. The elevation of the airport is 102 m (AMSL). The runway is 1735 m in
length. The orientation of the runway is 12/30.

Fig 7: Layout of Faizabad Airport with incomplete mud pit highlighted

Faizabad airport is listed in AIC18 of 1986 issued by DGCA as “a State
Government Aerodrome normally maintained in a serviceable condition”. The
aerodrome can be used by civil aircraft subject to prior permission.
M/s Falcon Aviation had entered into an agreement with the State
Government of Uttar Pradesh on 20.03.2009 to utilize Faizabad Airstrip for
imparting flying training. As per the agreement, Falcon Aviation Academy is
responsible for maintenance and security of the airfield. All expenses for
maintenance or construction of any facility are to be borne by the operator.
Page 12 of 30
 Fig 8: Incursion of stray cattle and wild animals on the Runway
During visit of Investigation team to Faizabad airport, it was observed that
the airport premises is not properly secured. Stray cattle and wild animals were
seen grazing in the vicinity of the runway. A barbed wire had been put up on both
sides of the runway strip to prevent incursion by the cattle and wild animals, but
had proven adequate as is evident from the pictures above (Fig 8). Alternately, a
pit was being dug on the side of runway to prevent stray cattle from approaching
the runway, but the work was lying incomplete.

1.11 Flight Recorders:

Aircraft was not equipped with a DFDR or a CVR recorder.

1.12 Wreckage and Impact Information:

Aircraft forced landed on the bed of Saryu river and had travelled a
distance of 213 feet approximately on main landing gear before it got toppled.
The marks of tyre track could be seen in the picture taken immediately after the
accident.

Fig 9: Wheel track marks

Page 13 of 30
1.13 Medical and Pathological Information:
The crew did not receive any injuries in the accident. The post flight
medical examination was done on 26.04.2018 and the reports did not indicate any
signs of alcohol in body.

1.14 Fire:
There was no pre or post impact fire.
1.15 Survival Aspects:
The accident was survivable.

1.16 Tests and Research:

1.16.1 Engine Strip Examination:
The Engine of the accidented aircraft was uninstalled from the aircraft and
subjected to detailed examination. General external inspection was carried out.
The observations of the detailed inspection of the engine are enumerated below.
Observations during General External Inspection:
1. Dent was found on the engine cowling near nose section. One rivet of
cowling at nose section was found missing.
2. Exhaust stag was found damaged. (Figure10)

Fig 10: Damage to the nose cowling and exhaust stag

3. Starter drive gear was found broken. (Figure 11)

Fig 11: Broken Starter Gear and Ring Gear teeth

Page 14 of 30
4. Starter ring gear teeth were found damaged at different places and rubbing
marks were present on the back of the ring gear. (Figure 11)
5. Air intake filter was found clogged with sand. (Figure12)

Fig 12: Air intake filter and broken piece of starter gear
6. All gears of the starter were found broken and only one fourth of gear was
present. (Figure 12)
7. Cracks were found on both sides of starter mounting points. (Figure 17)
8. All sparks plug from all the Cylinder heads were uninstalled for inspection
and found intact. Blue colour deposit was observed on electrodes of top spark
plug for Cylinder No. 1 and 3. Bottom spark plugs of cylinder No. 1 & 2 had
yellow colour deposits on its electrodes. (Figure 13)

Fig 13: Spark Plugs

9. Ignition Harness was checked and found satisfactory.
10. The condition of Magnetos was found satisfactory.
11. Alternator was found satisfactory.
Page 15 of 30
12. Fuel supply lines and Fuel filter were checked and found satisfactory.
Engine ground run was given after general inspection and cleaning of spark
plugs and air filter. The broken starter was also replaced with a serviceable one.
No abnormalities were observed in engine performance. After the Engine Ground
run, dismantling of the engine was carried out to see if any internal damage
existed which could have caused the engine shutdown. The observations of
Engine Strip Examination are given below.
Observations during Strip Examination of the Engine:
1. Both magnetos, oil filter, R.P.M drive gear and ignition harness were
uninstalled from the engine and found satisfactory.
2. Accessory cover was removed and found satisfactory.
3. All induction pipes, oil return lines and oil sump removed and found
satisfactory.
4. All cylinders including pistons and connecting rods were dismantled.
Scoring marks were observed on cylinder No. 1 inner wall as well as on piston.
Rest all the three cylinders were found satisfactory. (Figure 14)

Fig 14: Scoring marks on Cylinder No 1 and its Piston

5. Bluish deposit was found on Cylinder no.1 piston head and heavy amount
of lead deposit was observed on all the piston heads. (Figure 15)Piston rings,
Push rods and connecting rods were dismantled from all cylinders and found
satisfactory.

Page 16 of 30
 Fig 15: Blue Colour deposit and Lead deposit on the pistons

6. Carburettor was removed and inspected. It was found that fuel accelerating
jet nozzle was not properly installed in the carburettor which would result into a
lower jet pressure than the standard pressure. (Fig 16). The jet nozzle was fitted
during the last overhaul and is not inspected in any schedule maintenance checks.

Fig 16: Fuel Accelerating Jet Nozzle

7. Crankcase and oil sump was found satisfactory.

Page 17 of 30
1.16.2 Engine Starter Lab Examination:
The failed engine starter was sent to DGCA Lab for examination and to
ascertain the cause of failure. Visual and macro examination of failed part under
the stereo-microscope up to a magnification of 50X was carried out and the
observations are as follows: -
a) Drive End Head Assembly:
The drive end head assembly removed from the aircraft had visible cracks
as is shown in Figure 17.

Fig 17: Drive end head assembly

The crack was opened up and examined, the surface of the crack is shown
in Figure 18.

Fig 18: Beach marks on cracked surface

Light beach marks were noticed on the fracture surface. Rubbing Marks
were noticed on the fracture surface. Rubbing marks were also noticed on the
mounting holes of the head assembly as shown in Figure 19

Page 18 of 30
 Fig 19: Rubbing marks on mounting holes
b)Bendix Drive:
Only small portion of the gear was available for examination. Rest of the
portion could have fallen during take-off or in air, after the gear was broken
during engine start-up. Pitting was noticed on the gear flank as shown in Fig 20.

Fig 20: Pitting on the gear

Shaft of the gear was found corroded and slightly bent as shown in Fig 21.

Fig 21: Starter shaft bent and corroded

The presence of light beach marks on the fractured surface and rubbing
marks on the holes of head assembly indicated presence of cyclic load due to
vibrational stress. Bending of the shaft and signature of corrosion on it indicates
that there was some restriction in rotation.

Page 19 of 30
 From the above observations, it is inferred that the base of the assembly
had cracked due to corrosion fatigue which resulted from fluctuating load caused
by vibration.

1.17 Organizational and Management Information:

1.17.1Falcon Aviation Academy was established in 2006 and registered with
DGCA as a Flying Training Organisation. Academy provides ab-initio training to
pilots and it operates from Faizabad airport, Uttar Pradesh.
Falcon Aviation Academy had a fleet of 10 Cessna 152 (including VT-
PTD), 02 PA34 aircraft and 01 R44 helicopter registered under private category
at the time of accident. Academy has been established primarily to provide
integrated flying and ground training to students towards obtaining Flying
Licenses, Ratings and other flying qualifications.
The organisation chart of FAA is as given below;

Fig: 22: FAAOrganisation Chart

Page 20 of 30
1.17.2 Training and Procedures Manual:
Falcon Aviation Academy‟s Training and Procedure Manual was approved
by DGCA on 03.03.2016. The weather Minima for Instructors and Crew is given
in Section 9.4 of the manual and is quoted below.

“All dual flights are governed by the weather minima specified in DGCA
regulations. VFR flight training is carried out when visibility is 5km or above the
weather minima. An AFI/FI may operate with special VFR subject to
authorisation from CFI/Dy CFI.”
Details of training exercises to be carried out at Falcon Aviation Academy
are given in Section 5 of the Training and Procedure Manual. In para 21 of
Section 5.1, following caution is given for practising Engine failure/emergencies
during and after Take-off.

“Caution: During practice, on the recovery, it is essential to avoid slam

opening of the throttle: engine failure can occur if this advice is ignored.”

The Flying Order Book has been maintained as a separate copy for easy
reference by Falcon Aviation Academy as per Section 4 of the Training
Procedure Manual. Requirement laid for all Instructors and Students to comply
with the FOB is quoted below.

“All members (Instructors and students) of FAA are required to comply

with all the orders mentioned in FOB. These rules and regulations are
established to encourage a high standard of flying discipline and ensure flight
safety. They also lay down procedures for the efficient day to day operation of the
Falcon Aviation Academy.
All members must read this Flying Order Book and sign to indicate that
they have done so upon first joining the FAA and thereafter on an annual basis
and when amended”

Section 6.3 of the FOB gives amplified procedures to be followed for

Rough Engine Operation or Loss of Power. Procedure to followed in case of
spark plug fouling is quoted as below

Page 21 of 30
 “A slight engine roughness in flight may be caused by one or more spark
plugs becoming fouled by carbon or lead deposits. This may be verified by
turning the ignition switch momentarily from BOTH to either L or R position. An
obvious power loss in single ignition operation is evidence of spark plug or
magneto trouble. Assuming that spark plugs are the more likely cause, lean the
mixture to the recommended lean setting for cruising flight. If the problem does
not clear up in several minutes, determine if a richer mixture setting will produce
smoother operation. If not, proceed to the nearest airport for repairs using the
BOTH position of the ignition switch unless extreme roughness dictates the use of
a single ignition position.”

1.17.3 Local Flying Area:

FAA had obtained NOC for flying training at Faizabad Airport from the
Airport Authority of India. As per the conditions of NOC the Local Flying Area
for Faizabad Airport is defined as “within 04NM of ARP at Faizabad Aerodrome
with a vertical limit from ground to 1000 feet AGL.”

1.18 Additional Information:

1.18.1 Pilot Operating Handbook:

As per Section 3 of Pilot Operating Handbook of Cessna 152, emergency
procedure for Rough Engine Operation or Loss of Power is quoted below.

“ROUGH ENGINE OPERATION OR LOSS OF POWER

CARBURETOR ICING
A gradual loss of RPM and eventual engine roughness may result from the
formation of carburetor ice. To clear the ice, apply full throttle and pull the
carburetor heat knob full out until the engine runs smoothly; then remove
carburetor heat and readjust the throttle. If conditions require the continued use
of carburetor heat in cruise flight, use the minimum amount of heat necessary to
prevent ice from forming and lean the mixture slightly for smoothest engine
operation.

Page 22 of 30
SPARK PLUG FOULING
A slight engine roughness in flight may be caused by one or more spark plugs
becoming fouled by carbon or lead deposits. This may be verified by turning the
ignition switch momentarily from BOTH to either L or R position. An obvious
power loss in single ignition operation is evidence of spark plug or magneto
trouble. Assuming that spark plugs are the more likely cause, lean the mixture to
the recommended lean setting for cruising flight. If the problem does not clear up
in several minutes, determine if a richer mixture setting will produce smoother
operation. If not, proceed to the nearest airport for repairs using the BOTH
position of the ignition switch unless extreme roughness dictates the use of a
single ignition position.
MAGNETO MALFUNCTION
A sudden engine roughness or misfiring is usually evidence of magneto problems.
Switching from BOTH to either L or R ignition switch position will identify which
magneto is malfunctioning. Select different power settings and enrich the mixture
to determine if continued operation on BOTH magnetos is practicable. If not,
switch to the good magneto and proceed to the nearest airport for repairs-
LOW OIL PRESSURE
If low oil pressure is accompanied by normal oil temperature, there is a
possibility the oil pressure gage or relief valve is malfunctioning. A leak in the
line to the gage is not necessarily cause for an immediate precautionary landing
because an orifice in this line will prevent a sudden loss of oil from the engine
sump. However, a landing at the nearest airport would be advisable to inspect the
source of trouble.
If a total loss of oil pressure is accompanied by a rise in oil temperature, there is
good reason to suspect an engine failure is imminent. Reduce engine power
immediately and select a suitable forced landing field. Use only the minimum
power required to reach the desired touchdown spot.”

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1.18.2 Fuel and Oil Uplift:
On the day of accident, before commencing the accident sortie, a total of
40 litres of fuel was uplifted and total fuel on board was 90 litres. At the accident
site, fuel was drained from the aircraft wings and from the fuel strainer on
27.04.2018 in presence of officer from DGCA and AAIB. Total 45 litres of fuel
was collected.
No oil was charged on 26.04.2018. However, 0.8 Qts oil was uplifted a day
before after all 4 sorties. Oil was also drained at the accident site and
approximately 5.5 litres of oil was collected from the aircraft.

1.18.3 Visual Flight Rules:

VFR Operating Minima requirement are given in the DGCA CAR Section
8, Series C, Part I and is shown in the table below.

Fig 23: Snapshot of CAR Section 8, Series C, Part I

No Special VFR Flights are permitted for commercial aeroplane transport
aeroplanes as per the CAR.

1.19 Useful or Effective Investigation Techniques:

Nil

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2 ANALYSIS

2.1 Serviceability of the Aircraft:

Aircraft VT-PTD (MSN 15285798) had a current Certificate of
Airworthiness and ARC valid up to 28.03.2019. The Aircraft held a valid Aero
Mobile License which was valid up to 31.05.2019.
The last major inspection undertaken on aircraft and its engines was 200
hrs/12 month and was carried out on aircraft and engine on 18.04.2018, as per the
information available from the log book. The aircraft had flown 32 hours after the
last major inspection till the date of accident.
During the detailed examination of Engine, it was observed that the Engine
had only external damages, which were mainly caused during the forced landing.
No internal damage was visible at the time of dismantling. External damage to
engine was mainly confined to starter gear and drive gear teethes wherein starter
gear was found broken and some drive gear teeth were found damaged. In
addition to this, two cracks were observed on starter base at holding positions.
The damaged starter and its broken gear were sent to DGCA Lab for
examination and as per the result of examination, the base of the assembly had
cracked due to corrosion fatigue which resulted from fluctuating load caused by
vibration. The vibrational loads were possibly caused due to bending of shaft and
improper engagement with the ring drive. It is evident that the crack had
progressed over time and was not result of any impact during the accident.
The blue coloured deposit on piston heads and spark plug electrode was
due to non-combustion of fuel in the cylinder. It can be safely presumed that the
top spark plugs of Cylinder no.1 and 3 having blue deposit were not firing.
Bottom Spark plugs of Cylinder no. 1 and 2 too were in poor condition due to
excessive lead deposit on its electrodes.
The yellow coloured deposit observed on piston heads is a sign of lead
deposit which is normally observed on engines received for overhaul with
approximately 700 to 800 Hrs of running. Spark plugs too were found with high
content of lead deposit which was indicating towards lack of maintenance during

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scheduled inspections. Quantitatively that amount of deposit could not have
accumulated in just 32 Hrs of engine running had 200 hrs inspection been
properly carried out on 18.04.2018. Alternatively, such high deposits could also
be caused because the aircraft was carrying out maximum of flying at low altitude
(in local flying area) with rich mixture.
The accelerating fuel jet nozzle was not installed properly at its position
which resulted into improper fuel discharge into the venturi and subsequent
improper fuel air mixture composition. The effect would have amplified in case
of slam opening of throttle.
The condition of Starter Motor and Spark plugs hinted at poor maintenance
practices. The vibrations and loss of power during the accident flight was caused
by fouling of the spark plugs. Crew was unable to re-start the engine as the starter
gear teeth had broken possibly during last start up on ground.
The serviceability of the aircraft was a factor in the accident.

2.2 Crew Qualifications:

The crew was qualified and authorised to operate the flight. Crew
qualification is not a factor in the accident.

2.3 Weather:
Falcon Aviation Academy obtained and recorded weather from Lucknow,
Varanasi and Gorakhpur on the day of accident. At 0100 UTC, on the day of
accident, visibility of 3500 meters in haze and 10 Kt winds with bearing 120°
were reported at 0100 UTC at Faizabad Airport, with no significant change
predicted. Visibility of 3000m in haze was reported by Varanasi airport at 0500
UTC and Lucknow Airport at 0530 UTC, with no significant change predicted.
As per CAR Section 8 Series C, Part I, Special VFR operations are not
allowed for any commercial air transport aeroplane. However, Special VFR
flights subject to authorisation by CFI/Dy. CFI were allowed in the DGCA
approved Training and Procedure Manual of Falcon Aviation Academy. The
flight was operated under Special VFR as laid in Section 9.4 of the DGCA
approved Training and Procedure Manual.
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 The Manual does not give any reference of any DGCA regulation, under
which Special VFR operations can be permitted.
Weather, however, was not a contributory factor in the accident.

2.4 Faizabad Aerodrome:

Faizabad Aerodrome is operated under private category by M/s Falcon
Aviation Academy under a lease agreement with the State Government of Uttar
Pradesh. As per the agreement, the responsibility for maintenance and security of
the airfield lies with Falcon Aviation Academy.
The airport is primarily utilized by Falcon Aviation Academy to impart
flying training to student pilots. The airport is listed in AIC 18 of 1986 issued by
DGCA as “a State Government Aerodrome normally maintained in a serviceable
condition”. Although no scheduled flights take place, the aerodrome can still be
used by civil aircraft subject to prior permission.
The airport premises is not properly secured and stray cattle and wild
animals are able to approach the runway. A barbed wire fence installed by the
operator was not an adequate deterrent and could be crossed by the cattle and
wild animals. The work for a pit to prevent animals from approaching the runway
was lying incomplete. The hazards present at airport were not a contributory
factor in the accident but could pose a serious threat to flights operating from the
Faizabad airport.

2.5 Circumstances Leading to the Accident:

The aircraft took off from Runway 12 at 0521 UTC for an instrument
flying sortie in south sector under the command of Student Pilot. After getting
airborne, Flight instructor monitored the engine parameters and flight instruments
and no abnormality was noticed. Aircraft attained an altitude of 1000 feet in
sector south and crew had planned for GPS assisted 05 NM approach for
Runway12.While the aircraft was on final approach for Runway 12, engine
vibrations were felt and loss of power was observed.
As per the FOB, such vibrations and loss of power could be caused by
fouling of spark plugs. The Flight Instructor immediately took over the controls
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and tried to carry out corrective actions as per the emergency procedures given in
the POH. While carrying out emergency procedure, the Engine stopped possibly
due to inadvertent “leaning of fuel mixture” or “slam opening of throttle”. Efforts
were made to restart the engine but as the starter gear teeth had broken during the
last start up prior to take-off, the engine could not be restarted.
As per statement of crew, the aircraft was about 5 NM away from the
airstrip and losing height. The crew decided to go in for forced landing and
diverted the aircraft towards Saryu river bed which was about 01 NM away.
Aircraft touched the river bed on its rear wheels and rolled for more than 200 feet
before the nose wheel also touched the ground. As the aircraft weight fell on
wheels, the nose wheel sank into the soft sand causing pileup of sand which lead
to toppling of the aircraft. Both crew managed to evacuate themselves from the
aircraft and suffered no injuries. There was no post impact fire.

3 CONCLUSIONS
3.1 Findings
1) Aircraft had a valid Certificate of Airworthiness. As per aircraft and engine
log books, the last major inspection (200 Hrs) was carried on 18.04.2018.
2) There were no pending or deferred snags on the aircraft before the accident
flight. Engine parameters were checked and found satisfactory during the
previous sortie as per the Flight Record Book.
3) Spark Plugs were found in poor condition during the detailed engine
examination and the starter teeth were found broken. Crack was found on the
body of starter as well.
4) Condition of engine and its accessories observed during the detailed
examination, hinted at possibility of certification being done without carrying out
the actual maintenance.
5) Fuel accelerating jet nozzle was fitted improperly in the last overhaul.
6) Both crew were qualified and authorised to operate the flight.

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7) On day of accident, visibility of 3500 meters in haze and 10 Kt winds with
bearing 120° were reported at 0100 UTC at Faizabad Airport, with no significant
change predicted. Visibility of 3000m in haze was reported by Varanasi airport at
0500 UTC and Lucknow Airport at 0530 UTC, with no significant change
predicted. The flight was operated under Special VFR.
8) The Local Flying Area for Faizabad Airport is defined as 1000 Feet, 04NM
from the ARP.
9) Training Exercise for GPS assisted 05 NM approach to Runway 12 was
planned during the accident flight, however no flight plan was filed by the
operator.
10) The engine vibration and loss of power was caused by “fouling of spark
plugs”
11) Instructor took over the controls and carried out emergency procedure as
per POH. While the crew was carrying out POH prescribed procedure, the engine
stopped.
12) Crew attempted to restart the engine, but the engine did not start as the
Starter gear teeth had failed. Thereafter, crew decided to „forceland‟.
13) The aircraft landed on the river bed with rear wheel touching the ground
first. As the lift dropped and aircraft weight started coming on wheels. And as the
nose wheel touched the ground and it started sinking in the sand which caused the
aircraft to topple.
14) Aircraft rolled for a distance of approximately 213 feet on ground before
toppling.
15) From the quantity of fuel and oil drained from the aircraft at the accident
site, it is evident that sufficient quantity of fuel and oil was available in the
aircraft for operating the flight.
16) No fire was reported on aircraft and crew suffered no injuries in the
accident.

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3.2 Probable Cause of the Accident:
The accident was probably caused by inadvertent “Leaning of Mixture” or
“Slam opening of the Throttle”, while following the emergency procedure for
Rough Engine Operations or Loss of power due to Spark Plug Fouling.
Poor Maintenance practices, broken gear of the starter motor and
improperly installed fuel jet nozzle were contributory factors.

4. Safety Recommendations:
4.1. Operator should reiterate the importance of caution, mentioned in the TPM
related to “slam opening of throttle” to all its Instructors and Trainees.
4.2. Operator should ensure that it‟s AMEs carry out all maintenance on aircraft
meticulously.
4.3. Operator should ensure that the observation regarding fuel accelerating jet
nozzle is communicated to the organisation carrying out the engine overhaul
4.4. Operator should ensure that runway is secured from incursion of wildlife.
4.5. DGCA should audit the maintenance practices of Falcon Aviation
Academy.
4.6. DGCA should ensure that the relevant regulations are quoted in the
Training and Procedure Manual of all Flying Training Organisations, where ever
Special VFR operations are being permitted.

Jasbir Singh Larhga Dinesh Kumar

Investigator-in-Charge Investigator

Date : 29.03.2019
Place : New Delhi

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