What happened
On 11 November 2012, a Reims-Cessna F150H, registration EI-AST, was performing student pilot training at Birr Airfield in Co. Offaly. Following a series of training maneuvers, the aircraft completed a touch-and-go landing on Runway 18. As the aircraft attempted to climb away, the engine lost power. Witnesses observed the aircraft enter a steep left-hand descending turn before disappearing behind a line of trees. The aircraft struck the ground heavily in a scrub field, eventually coming to rest in an inverted position. Both the instructor and the student pilot sustained fatal injuries.
The investigation
The AAIU investigation focused on the aircraft's fuel levels and the sequence of events leading to the power loss. Investigators examined the aircraft's maintenance records, fuel logs, and the flight history of the day. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft had undergone several training sorties prior to the accident, including a cross-country navigation exercise and circuit training. While the aircraft was found to be airworthy and the engine was mechanically sound, the investigation scrutinized the fuel management practices of the flying club. The team also reviewed the oversight provided by the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) and the club's internal flight documentation.
Findings
- The primary cause of the engine power loss was fuel starvation.
- At the time of the power loss, the estimated fuel remaining was approximately 9.6 litres, which was below the manufacturer's specified unusable fuel limit of 13.25 litres.
- The aircraft was operating near its maximum weight and within its center of gravity limits.
- The loss of control and subsequent impact were likely caused by a stall resulting from inadequate airspeed following the engine failure.
- The aircraft had landed with insufficient fuel reserves on multiple occasions during the preceding month.
- There were identified deficiencies in the club's documented fuel policies and the level of local supervision.
Safety action
The investigation resulted in eight safety recommendations aimed at improving fuel management and oversight. These include requirements for the flying club to publish clearer guidance on fuel procedures and to update flight records to include fuel uplifts. Additionally, recommendations were made to the IAA to review inspection forms for Registered Training Facilities to ensure they properly check for documented fuel policies and accurate aircraft empty weight data.