Difficult terrain and the lack of use of brakes were also suggested as reasons behind the incident.
Four factors contributed to the need for an emergency landing in the midlands last year.
That's according to a new report from the AAIU, which had been investigating the incident near Limetree Airfield in Portarlington in September 2023.
The report found the engine of the aircraft had 'coughed' multiple times only seconds after take-off, after which the pilot attempted to find somewhere to put the vehicle down.
The pilot was uninjured during the emergency landing, while the passenger had been taken to hospital for treatment of lower back pain - he was discharged later that night.
An examination of the wreckage by the Air Accident Investigation Unit found the aircraft sustained substantial damage during the course of the incident.
Investigators report a number of factors may have contributed to the accident, most notably a cold seizure in the front cylinder.
However, they also highlight the low height above the terrain, the nature of the terrain available for performing an emergency landing, and the lack of effective braking action, may have been contributing factors.
Hauliers Suspend Protest As Government Agrees To Talks
Enoch Burke Challenges Prison Transfer As Unlawful In High Court
National Famine Way Roadshow Arrives In Westmeath Today
Gardai Investigating Stolen Cars In Westmeath
Sentencing Of €8.4m Cocaine Pilot Delayed After 'Breakdown' With Legal Team
Councillors Push For Local Link Service Between Westmeath Towns
Midlands MEP warns EU of 'serious costs crisis'
TUS Athlone Students Voice Concerns Over Rising Fuel Costs
Revenue Seize Over €94k Of Contraband In Various Operations
Over €7.4 Million Announced For Housing Adaption Grants For Midlands
Three Hour Commute Forced Midlands Woman To Leave Dublin Hospital Job
Westmeath Fundraising Committee Seek Volunteers For 24 Hour Walk
Snow Could Be On The Cards This Week Despite Longer Evenings
First Laois Finalist In National Heritage Awards
'Hocus Pocus… No More Focus' Driver Caught In Laois Hours Into Driving Ban
Tolü Makay And Katelyn Cummins Into Dancing With the Stars Final
Over €65K Funding For Midlands Agricultural Shows
Westmeath TD Condemns Arson Attacks On Westmeath Churches
Gardaí Appeal For Witnesses To Vandalised Westmeath Train