What happened
On October 17, 2008, a GLASUS AIR III SH-3R, registration G-BODI, was performing a local flight at the Robledillo de Mohernando airfield in Guadalajara. The aircraft was operated for private use and carried a pilot and one passenger. Following a period of engine warm-up and a short flight reaching 4,000 ft, the pilot began the approach to the airfield.
During a turn to align with the downwind leg of runway 19, the pilot reported hearing engine explosions and subsequently declared an engine failure. As the aircraft entered the final turn, the engine stopped completely. The pilot attempted an immediate landing in a field ahead of the runway with the landing gear extended. Upon impact, the aircraft struck the ground, causing the propeller to hit the earth and the aircraft to capsize, ultimately coming to rest in an inverted position approximately 500 meters from the threshold of runway 19.
Two occupants of a nearby National Police helicopter arrived at the scene shortly after the crash to assist. Both the pilot and the passenger sustained minor injuries and were evacuated to a hospital in Madrid.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and the fuel system of the GLASSAIR III SH-3R. The inspection revealed that the main and auxiliary fuel tanks were empty. While the engine itself was found to be intact and capable of rotating freely, a significant disruption in fuel flow was identified.
Physical evidence showed that the fuel selector was set to the forward tank. Although fuel was present in the lines connecting the tanks to the selector and the auxiliary electric pump, no fuel reached the filter. The investigation confirmed that the electrical auxiliary pump, which was essential for maintaining flow, had been left disconnected in the cockpit. Furthermore, while the main tank featured a system to ensure fuel delivery during uncoordinated maneuvers, the auxiliary tank did not.