What happened
On 13 June 2014, a Denney Kitfox Mk 2, registration G-BSCG, was performing a private flight from a private airstrip at Blackshawhead, West Yorkshire. The aircraft had been grounded for several months with empty fuel tanks, but had been refuelled two weeks prior to facilitate engine ground runs for testing a new propeller. An annual inspection for the revalidation of the Permit to Fly had been completed the day before the incident.
During the takeoff roll on a damp grass runway, the aircraft accelerated normally. However, upon reaching an altitude of approximately 9 ft, the engine suffered a sudden loss of power. This resulted in an immediate stall, causing the right wing to strike the ground and the aircraft to pitch forward onto its nose. The pilot, who was wearing a four-point harness, escaped the incident with no injuries.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. Investigators noted that the engine had performed satisfactorily during recent ground runs and that a fuel sample taken from the strainer on the day of the accident appeared normal. The aircraft sustained damage to the fuselage, engine cowling, propeller, and the leading edge tube and right wing.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating in light wind conditions with a temperature of 20ºC.
- The engine experienced a sudden loss of power during the initial climb.
- The specific cause of the engine power loss could not be established.