Engine failure leads to aircraft inversion during forced landing near Sywell

Casualties unknown • 4.5 miles north of Sywell Aerodrome, GB

A Flight Design CTSW aircraft overturned in a stubble field after an engine failure, though both occupants escaped without injury.

What happened

On 15 September 2018, a Flight Design CTSW, registration G-KEVK, was conducting a private local flight originating from Sywell Aerodrome. After completing circuit practice at Denethorpe Airfield and performing some sightseeing, the two pilots began a turn to return to Sywell. Approximately 5 nautical miles from the airfield, the engine experienced a sudden loss of power.

Due to insufficient altitude to maneuver for an into-wind approach, the pilot opted for a forced landing in a stuble field. The landing was performed downwind, resulting in a higher groundspeed than ideal. As the pilot applied the brakes, the nosewheel struck a tractor furrow. The impact caused the nose landing gear to collapse, pitching the aircraft onto its roof. Both occupants vacated the aircraft unaided, and no injuries were sustained.

The investigation

The investigation focused on the cause of the engine failure and the circumstances of the landing. While the engine was found to be in good working order when tested with a new fuel source, investigators examined the fuel system and the aircraft's weight configuration. It was noted that the aircraft was slightly over its regulatory weight limit due to an error in calculating the weight of extra safety equipment, though this did not impact the flight performance.

Investigators also reviewed the fuel levels and the aircraft's design. During recovery, it was observed that one wing tank was empty while the other remained significantly full, despite no evidence of a leak. The investigation also looked into the pilots' awareness of manufacturer communications regarding the fuel system.

Findings

  • The engine failure was likely caused by a disruption in the fuel supply.
  • It is possible that air entered the fuel system because the fuel level was low enough to uncover the feed pipe, a risk exacerbated by the aircraft's design and potential sideslip.
  • The pilots were unaware of Service Bulletin SB1311, which details how air can be drawn into the system when fuel levels are low.
  • The aircraft's nosewheel struck a furrow in the field, leading to the gear collapse and subsequent inversion.

Probable cause

The engine failure was likely caused by a fuel supply issue, potentially involving air entering the system or water in the fuel, which led to a forced landing that resulted in the aircraft overturning after striking a furrow.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2018-09-15 Flight Design CTSW accident near 4.5 miles north of Sywell Aerodrome, GB?

A Flight Design CTSW aircraft overturned in a stubble field after an engine failure, though both occupants escaped without injury.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2018-09-15 involved a Flight Design CTSW, registration G-KEVK , at 4.5 miles north of Sywell Aerodrome, GB.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine failure was likely caused by a fuel supply issue, potentially involving air entering the system or water in the fuel, which led to a forced landing that resulted in the aircraft overturning after striking a furrow.

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