AAIB Report: Crankshaft Fatigue Crack Caused Engine Failure in Bellanca Decathlon

The UK's Air Accidents Investigation Branch has released its findings on an incident involving a Bellanca Decathlon, G-TALX, near Little Gransden Airfield. The aircraft suffered a complete engine failure during an aerobatic flight on 14 May 2022. The pilot performed a successful forced landing in a nearby field, with no injuries reported. The investigation determined the engine failure was caused by a crankshaft fracture originating from a fatigue crack, which started at a corrosion pit. Following this and two similar incidents, the engine manufacturer issued a Mandatory Service Bulletin for inspections.

Official Source: https://www.gov.uk/aaib-reports/aaib-investigation-to-bellanca-american-champion-decathlon-8kcab-g-talx