Incident Overview
On 1 May 2024 at 1635 UTC, a private flight operated by an Exodus Deltajet 500 Stingray (registration G-CMMW) experienced a throttle malfunction shortly after departing St Michael's Airfield, Lancashire. The aircraft was equipped with one BMW R1200 two-cylinder piston engine. The sole occupant, the pilot, sustained serious injuries.
Events During Flight
After takeoff, the foot throttle became stuck with the engine producing high rpm. The pilot shut down the engine and began maneuvering to return to the field, confident that altitude and airspeed were sufficient for a safe landing. To reduce altitude, he executed a turn that resulted in a position farther from the airfield than intended. As the aircraft neared the boundary fence, it entered a wind gradient, stalled, and impacted the ground.
Pilot and Injury Information
The pilot, aged 70, held a National Private Pilot’s Licence and had accumulated 1,143 flying hours, of which 69 were on the same aircraft type. His recent flying activity totaled 2 hours in both the previous 90 and 28 days. He reported serious leg injuries and credited his upper torso restraint and helmet with preventing more severe harm.
Damage and Investigation
The aircraft sustained significant damage, which was assessed as possibly beyond economic repair. An investigation into the throttle restriction could not determine the cause of the jamming.