Air accident probe puts spotlight on degraded rubber part
20 Aug 2024
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Crash linked to "loss of engine power probably caused by an age-related split in the rubber coupling..."
London - UK aviation authorities are revising their guidance for the management of 'life-limited' aircraft components in the wake of a crash likely caused by a degraded rubber part.
On 4 April 2023, a Jabiru UL-450 light aircraft lost power shortly after takeoff with subsequent stall and spin at an aerodrome in Upminster, said a recent report into the accident in which two people were seriously injured.
The Air Accidents Investigation Branch found that the loss of engine power was "probably caused by an age-related split in the rubber coupling attaching the carburettor to the engine’s plenum chamber."
No issues with the engine had been identified during a 100-hour engine service or the subsequent check-flight in January 2023, according to the investigator's review.
However, the location of the coupling "made inspection problematic, noted the report, adding that the engine maker’s manual stated that the coupling had a 1,000 hour, or five-year life.
But, said the investigators, there was no evidence that the coupling had been replaced since the aircraft was built in 2006.
The Light Aircraft Association (LAA) is now revising its documents to clarify the responsibilities of owners and inspectors regarding the management of life-limited components on light aircraft.
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has also issued recommendations: to mandate a life-limit for the Jabiru carburettor coupling; and consider mandating a life-limit for similar components used on other engine and aircraft types.
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