What happened
On 25 July 2015, a Bede Aircraft Corp, BD5GR, registration EI-DNN, was conducting a general aviation flight from Waterford Airport with the intention of traveling to Shannon. Shortly after departure, the pilot established contact with Shannon ATC, though radio transmissions were noted as being very weak.
During the flight, the pilot reported an engine problem, which quickly escalated to a Mayday declaration. The pilot informed air traffic control that the aircraft was experiencing an engine fire and a simultaneous loss of elevator authority. The pilot indicated an intention to perform an emergency landing in a field rather than returning to the airport. Shortly after these transmissions, a following aircraft observed smoke on the ground, confirming the crash site in the vicinity of Garranba and Waterford.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight sequence, the wreckage at the impact site, and radio communications. Investigators noted that the pilot maintained a professional and composed demeanor during the emergency transmissions.
Physical examination of the crash site at Garranba revealed that the aircraft struck a tree in a boundary hedgerow with its left wingtip, leading to the separation of the left aileron and the entire left wing. The aircraft then struck a second hedgerow before coming to rest. Significant fire damage was observed at the main wreckage site, the location of the separated wing, and the second impact point. Witnesses reported seeing plumes of black smoke following the aircraft's path.
Findings
- The aircraft was a kit-built BD5GR utilizing a Midwest AE 110 rotary engine.
- The aircraft suffered an engine fire while in flight.
- The pilot reported a loss of elevator authority during the emergency.
- The impact sequence involved multiple strikes with hedgerows and trees, resulting in the destruction of the aircraft.
- The accident resulted in 1 fatality.