What happened
On 13 September 2014, a private flight involving an Avid Speedwing Avid Flyer, registration G-BUZE, was underway near Midhurst, Sussex. Approximately ten minutes after departing from a farm strip, the pilot observed an increase in engine temperature. After notifying a colleague on the ground via radio, the pilot attempted to return to the airfield by reducing power to assist with engine cooling.
During this return maneuver, the engine ceased operation. The pilot attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful, necessitating a forced landing in a nearby field. Upon touchdown, the aircraft maintained a high speed, bounced, and subsequently collided with trees and a fence at the edge of the field. The impact caused the aircraft to come to rest in an inverted position. The pilot, who sustained no injuries, was able to exit the aircraft through the pilot's door.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and the engine components to determine the cause of the power loss. The inspection revealed that the radiator cap was missing from the engine. This absence led to a loss of coolant, which subsequently caused the engine to seize.
Findings
- The engine failure was caused by engine seizure resulting from a lack of cooling.
- The loss of cooling was directly attributed to the missing radiator cap.