Cessna Aircraft Undifferentiated or Other Model
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP); Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Multiengine
Distraction; Troubleshooting
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical
Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition; Flight Crew Returned To Departure Airport
Aircraft
During power up; right engine slow to respond; but engine produced normal full power within 5 seconds. We elected to continue as normal engine parameters were observed. The plane operated as normal until cruise climb power was applied. When the props were brought back to 2450 RPM; the right engine began to vibrate severely. I pushed the props full forward and the vibration stopped. I then attempted applying a cruise climb RPM setting three more times with the same results. After a quick discussion; [name] and I elected to [notify ATC] for priority and return to ZZZ. We received vectors for the visual approach to RWY XXR. During short final; the right engine began to slowly surge and lost 150 RPM at a time commanded. This happened twice before landing. We then taxied into the ramp with a fire rescue escort and had no trouble with the right engine while on the ground. Fuel flow throughout the entire flight was normal and steady for all stages of flight. Unknown cause.
A Cessna pilot reported experiencing a significant in flight vibration in the right engine; which warranted an immediate return to the departed airport.