What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on null involved a Thruster, T600N-450 microlight aircraft, registration EI-GOE, at IE.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft experienced a loss of engine power during a low-altitude climb, necessitating a forced landing that resulted in the aircraft's destruction.

Engine Failure Leads to Destroyed Microlight in Co. Kilkenny

A Thruster T600N-450 microlight aircraft was destroyed during a forced landing in Kilkenny after experiencing significant power loss during climb-out.

What happened

On 2 March 2021, a Thruster T600N-450 microlight, registration EI-GOE, was performing local circuit flights from a private grass airstrip in Woolengrange, Co. Kilkenny. While climbing out after the third circuit, the aircraft experienced a sudden reduction in engine power at an altitude of approximately 200–300 feet.

The pilot attempted to troubleshoot the issue by cycling the electric fuel pump and adjusting the throttle, but the engine failed to regain power and felt as though it were flooding. Unable to maintain altitude, the pilot identified a nearby agricultural field for a forced landing. During the approach, the aircraft's speed was high, and the pilot attempted to clear a boundary hedge. During the landing roll, the aircraft struck a line of raised ground, causing the nose wheel to dig in. The impact caused the aircraft to decelerate abruptly and veer across the field, resulting in the total destruction of the aircraft. The pilot sustained serious injuries but managed to extricate himself from the wreckage.

The investigation

Investigators examined the engine and the circumstances surrounding the flight permit. The engine, a Jabiru 2200A, had been sourced by the pilot without clear documentation regarding its previous use or maintenance history. While the aircraft had undergone a flight permit inspection and a physical survey by the IAA, these processes were limited to external visual checks and could not detect internal mechanical defects.

Regarding regulatory compliance, the investigation found that the pilot had not notified the IAA of his intent to use a UK CAA-issued licence to operate an Irish-registered aircraft in Ireland. Additionally, the pilot did not hold the specific medical certification required by Irish aeronautical notices for this type of operation.

Findings

The primary cause of the accident was the reduction in engine power during the climb-out phase.
The engine's carburettor and induction system were configured to deliver an excessively rich fuel/air mixture.
The ignition system was found to be producing a very weak spark.
Detailed examination revealed the engine was in poor condition and was overdue for a complete overhaul.
The engine's exact history and previous installation configuration could not be verified.