What happened
On 4 June 2023, an EV-97 teamEurostar UK, registration G-IFLE, departed Otherton Airfield for a flight to Croft Farm. Following a normal takeoff, the aircraft climbed to approximately 740 ft agl while on the downwind leg. During this phase, the aircraft began to descend and turned toward the airfield, flying a path closer to the hangars than usual. As the pilot transitioned from the base leg toward the final approach, the aircraft entered a rapid, clockwise rotation. The aircraft maintained a steep nose-down attitude, completing approximately 1.5 rotations in roughly six seconds before striking a metal shipping container near a hangar. The impact caused the aircraft to catch fire, and both the pilot and passenger sustained fatal injuries.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage, engine, and flight data to determine the cause of the loss of control. The investigation found no evidence of structural failure or control malfunctions. The engine was found to be in a low power setting, with the propeller still rotating at impact, though it could not be determined if a power loss had occurred. The aircraft's flaps were retracted during the final maneuvers. While the aircraft's weight was estimated to be near its maximum capacity, investigators determined that the center of gravity remained within allowable limits. Additionally, medical examinations ruled out pilot incapacitation or carbon monoxide poisoning.
Findings
- The aircraft entered a spin during the turn from the base leg to final approach.
- The conditions for a spin entry were present due to a relatively high bank angle, decaying airspeed, and retracted flaps.
- The pilot's relatively low flight experience and the sudden nature of the spin likely limited the ability to execute a timely recovery.
- The aircraft was not equipped with an optional stall warning system.