What happened
On 30 August 2017, a Paramania Revo 2 foot-launched powered aircraft (FLPA) departed from a field near Kilshanroe, County Kildare, for a leisure flight. Shortly after takeoff, at an altitude of approximately 30 meters, the aircraft's engine stopped functioning.
In an attempt to perform a forced landing and avoid residential buildings and visible power lines, the pilot executed a left turn. During this maneuver, the aircraft struck a second set of 20 kV electricity lines that had been obscured from view by trees. The impact caused the aircraft's wing to become entangled in the wires, triggering a short circuit that blew two fuses and resulted in a power outage for the local area. The pilot unfastened his harness and descended to the ground; he sustained no injuries.
The investigation
The AAIU conducted a desk investigation using data from the pilot, emergency services, and the electricity network operator. Because the aircraft was not based in Ireland, the pilot had already returned home with the aircraft by the time the investigation commenced.
Investigators examined the aircraft's technical details, noting it was a 2015 model powered by a Polini Thor 110 engine. The investigation also reviewed the regulatory requirements for FLPA operations in Ireland, specifically regarding aircraft registration and pilot licensing. While the aircraft was unregistered, the investigation noted that registration requirements for such aircraft can vary between European states.
Findings
- The engine failure occurred at a very low altitude, leaving minimal time for corrective action.
- The aircraft struck electricity lines that were hidden by trees, making them difficult to detect during the emergency maneuver.
- The impact caused substantial damage to the aircraft, including a torn wing and a bent frame.
- The engine stoppage was likely caused by a carburetor issue, as subsequent maintenance and testing by the pilot restored successful operation.
Safety action
- Pilots should regularly review aviation authority safety leaflets regarding the hazards of wire strikes.
- General aviation pilots must ensure they are aware of the specific registration and licensing regulations of the country in which they are operating, as these rules are not always harmonized across Europe.