Accident
at 21NM NE PONOKA (LABRIE FIELD) AB (CEH3)
TSB Report #A21W0011: A privately registered Piper PA-22-108 was operating on a local flight from Labrie Field-Ponoka Industrial, AB (CEH3). The aircraft departed CEH3 at 2050Z (1350 local) and flew locally for approximately 35 minutes in cruise flight, at 4000 feet ASL, when the engine (Lycoming O-290-D) rpm suddenly decreased from 2300 rpm to 1500 rpm. The pilot applied carburetor heat, checked
both magnetos and switched fuel tanks; however, the engine rpm did not improve. The pilot initiated a forced approach 21NM NE of CEH3. While on approach to land, the pilot attempted to re-apply power and the engine rpm increased to 1800 rpm, which lasted approximately 20 seconds before engine power reduced to 1300 rpm. The pilot observed that the oil pressure was in the green band. While reapplying power, the aircraft overshot the intended landing area, and continued towards the next field. While approaching the next field, the aircraft crossed under a power line and over a road. At this time, the pilot observed a loud thud as the vertical stabilizer struck the power line. The pilot continued to land on the field and slid into a high wire fence, striking a fence post. The fence wire slid over the cowling and broke the windshield before the wire sheared. The aircraft came to rest leaning to the right, with the right wingtip resting on the ground. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, was uninjured. The emergency locator transmitter (ELT) was not activated. The aircraft received damage to the propeller and engine cowling, and had a bent left wing strut and windshield. Inspection of the engine revealed oil on cylinder 1 and blistered paint at the base of the cylinder. The engine contained 3.5 quarts (qts) of oil and it was observed that the engine exhaust was dripping engine oil.
UPDATE: Aviation Incident Report #16987: A privately registered Piper PA-22-108 from Ponoka Industrial (Labrie Field), AB (CEH3) to Ponoka Industrial (Labrie Field), AB (CEH3) lost engine power and was labouring. They checked the carburettor heat and mag, and changed fuel tanks, but it did not rectify the problem. The aircraft attempted a forced landing in a field. They crossed under a power line and over a road. The aircraft hit the lower power line (neutral line) and continued on to land in a field, where it hit a wire fence and post. There was damage to the propeller, engine cowling, and a broken windshield. No injuries. No fuel leaks. There was no damage to the fuselage, landing gear, or wings. The aircraft was towed to a secure farm location. The power line company was notified of damage to the power line. (Duplicate CADORS 2021C1741 deleted after information merge)